About Us
The Nakamura Difference
Our pledge
We’re here to give you care and comfort as we help guide you through the planning journey.
Matt Defrancia
Cemetery Superintendent
Renie Menor
Family Service Advisor
Jocelyn Kahonokula
Family Service Advisor
Kathy Morondos
Clerical & Administrative Specialist
Jeannie Ulufale
Clerical & Administrative Specialist
Makanalei Mcgrath-Awai
Funeral Arragner
Carl Shinyama
Transporter
Yoshino Sato
Staff Associate
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Savannah Googins
Managing Partner, Operations
Savannah Googins Is currently serving as the Managing Partner of Operations for Maui Memorial Park and Nakamura Mortuary in Maui Hawaii. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, she joined the Air Force at the age of 18, where she served as a vehicle operator, driving convoys through Kuwait and Iraq. Following her time in the military, she returned to her hometown, using her GI bill to pursue her BA.Upon graduation, she accepted a position at Mountain View Funeral Home in Washington, starting an 8-year journey into the funeral industry. Savannah started her career as a Family Service Advisor and since then has served as an administrative assistant, office manager, funeral director, embalmer, and eventually General Manager, before transferring to her current role in Maui.Her quest to provide unmatched customer services prompted her to return to school to obtain an additional AA in Mortuary Science. Since then, she has worked in every facet of the industry. She is a licensed funeral director, embalmer, crematory operator, and notary. Savannah said, “Returning to school to further my skills has provided me with a solid foundation to help guide my families and staff through the arrangement process from start to finish by focusing on empathy, reverence, and ensuring we are providing easy to understand information to our families in their time of need.”In addition to her duties as Managing Partner, she is also a wife to her husband of 14 years and their 4 children. In her free time, she enjoys volunteering at school events, family outings, puzzles, and spending time enjoying the rich culture the Island of Maui has to offer.
Chris Eissler
Managing Partner, Family Service
Christopher J Eissler is Managing Partner, Family Service at Maui Memorial Park Nakamura Mortuary in Maui, Hawaii, bringing over 4 years of expertise in the funeral home industry. His journey began as a Family Service Counselor in Houston, Texas, and later progressed to a Supervisor position in Tacoma, Washington. With a background as a Corporate Executive Chef and Master Sommelier, Chris infuses his role with a dedication to high service standards and genuine compassion.Chris obtained an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts from SUNY Cobleskill, followed by a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel Administration from UNLV. His commitment to continuous growth led him to acquire certificates from esteemed institutions such as the Culinary Institute of America, International Pastry Arts Center, and Court of Master Sommeliers. By working and studying in Germany, France, and Italy, Chris has gained invaluable international experience.When asked about his favorite part of being in service to families, Chris said, “I’ve been able to provide comfort and support during their most difficult times. It's an honor to guide them through the funeral planning process and help create meaningful tributes that celebrate their loved ones' lives. Seeing the impact our services have on families and knowing that I've made a positive difference is truly rewarding."Currently enrolled at Rice University, Chris remains dedicated to his personal and professional development. His extensive background in the culinary arts and hospitality industry equips him with the skills necessary to provide exceptional service to families in their time of need.
Sharmaine Bartolome
Cemetery and Funeral Home Office Manager
Sharmaine dedicated Clerical and Administrative Specialist with 2 years of experience at Maui Memorial Park – Nakamura Mortuary. She supports daily operations with strong attention to detail, professionalism, and compassion. From managing records and scheduling services to assisting families with care and sensitivity, she takes pride in upholding our core values: Care, Comfort, and Plan. With a calm and efficient approach, she aims to provide reliable administrative support while helping families feel at ease during difficult times.
Shaine Spenser
Family Service Advisor Supervisor
Born from a heart to serve our Maui community, Shaine is a dedicated Family Service Advisor with Maui Memorial Park and Nakamura Mortuary, helping local families plan ahead with care, compassion, and Aloha.Specializing in pre-planning and memorialization, Shaine works closely with individuals and families to make future arrangements easier and less stressful for their loved ones. From cemetery spaces and funeral services to cremation plans, travel protection, and memorial options, every family is guided with understanding, respect, and personalized attention.Believing that planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your ‘Ohana,“Taking care of today, while helping protect tomorrow for the people you love most.”
Cemetery Caretakers
Shu Shu DennisMalcom DeFranciaZachary Tampon Richard Pacheco
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Join us
We offer a healthy work/life balance and invite ideas and innovation. Nakamura Mortuary and Crematory is where our team members' purpose and passion unite.
