Richard Keli'ipunikailanikealawaihinanowahineopuna Papa Jr.'s Obituary
Embraced in the spirit of aloha with ʻohana by his side, Richard
Keliʻipunikailanikealawaihinanowahineopuna Papa, Jr. or “Keke” as he’s lovingly called passed into the light on Sunday, November 17, 2019.
He was born on February 26, 1954 in Honolulu, Oʻahu to Richard
Keliʻipunikailanikealawaihinanowahineopuna Papa, Sr. and Carol Leilani Papa (Lake). Keke is the oldest of five siblings and had an active childhood surfing, playing football, and paddling canoe. He grew up in Nānākuli and later came into his own on Hala Drive in Kalihi. Keke
graduated from Damien Memorial High School in 1972 before following in his father’s footsteps and enlisting in the United States Navy, earning Veteran’s status with service in Vietnam. This active waterman could be found running on the beach, surfing big waves, paddling canoe,
diving for the freshest fish, and swimming in his frequented local spots. He wore multiple hats as a dad, community volunteer, and educator. Spiritually elevated, Keke also served as a Kahu,
ambassador, and Hawaiian cultural practitioner. Much of his working career came with pride as a member, then Captain, of the Federal Fire Department where he retired from Station #8 at Kāneʻohe Marine Base after 32 years.
True to his nature, Keke continued to work and expanded on his love for construction, which his father also inspired, and went full-time in the commercial and mass residential space. He leaves this life too soon, but will forever be in his ocean paradise, catching waves with the greats,
enjoying a never-ending lūʻau, and jamming with the best Hawaiian musicians. Keke is survived by his parents Richard Papa, Sr. and Carol Papa (Lake); his children Kelani Mirau, Gabriel Papa and James Papa; grandchildren Khloe and Gabriel James Mirau; siblings Kawena Peterson, Malani DeAguiar, Ah Lan Diamond and Paul Liloa Papa; along with
numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. A celebration of life and memorial service will be held on Tuesday, December 3, 2019 at 6:00 PM in the Valley of the Temples Mortuary at 47-200 Kahekili Hwy, Kāneʻohe, HI
96744. Private burial services will be conducted later in the week at the Hawaiʻi State Veterans Cemetery and the waters off Oʻahu.
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