Agnes "Rita" Santos' Obituary
Agnes “Rita” Santos went to be with the Lord on August 30, 2018 at the age of 89 with her family by her side. She was born on January 19, 1929 in Paia. Rita became a laboratory analyst for HC&S at the age of 16, testing sugar samples at both the Paia and Pu’unene mills. She retired after 46 years.
Rita, known to many as “Tutu”, enjoyed the simple things in life. She could often be found sitting in her favorite chair outside with a baseball cap, a cup of coffee and a cigarette. She sat, enjoying her garden and talking stories with all those that walked by her house. Tutu was a kind and generous person who formed friendships with everyone she met.
Family was the most important thing to her. Our Tutu was an amazing mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was the heart of our family. We will miss being entertained by her singing of her Portuguese and Japanese songs, hearing her many childhood stories, tasting her vinha d’alhos on holidays, and her wonderful sense of humor. But mostly we will miss how she loved each and every one of us with her whole heart.
She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Lavina Volner; grandchildren, Rick (Erin) Volner, Rachel Hernandez-Rodas, Amanda (Kerry) Kamalii; great-grandchildren Alicia (Patrick) Balmoja, Dominic Hernandez-Rodas, Jordan Hernandez-Rodas, Dylan Hernandez-Rodas, Kaylee Volner, Kayden Volner, Kenzie Kamalii, Kallie Kamalii; many nieces and nephews, the girls from work, her neighbors and many more.
Our family would like to thank the nurses and the doctors of Maui Memorial Hospital, Hale Makua Gardenia Unit, and Hospice Maui for the wonderful care and the kindness shown to our Tutu.
“Goodbyes are not forever, goodbyes are not the end, they simply mean we miss you, until we meet again” - unkown
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