Benjamin Mendez Sr.'s Obituary
Benjamin Mendez Sr, 98, of Waiehu, Maui passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
Ben was born on March 23, 1926, to Frank Mendez and Hattie Kalani in Makawao, Maui. Growing up, he lived in Kaka’ako and later Waimanalo, O’ahu, before returning to Maui to reside in Kanaio. He is a U.S. Army veteran and retired from the Hawaii State Hospital. He was an avid boxer, singer, and builder.
Ben was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor, and daughter Harriett Lovell (Frank). He is survived by his son Benjamin Mendez Jr. (Berna); daughter Aulani Shiu (Tom); hanai son Rodney Arias; stepchildren Sheldon Holokai Sr., Clarence Pua Holokai, and Lamela “Honey Girl” Tamura. Ben has 18 grandchildren and many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.
The Mendez ‘Ohana is grateful to Maui Memorial Medical Center and Islands Hospice Kahului for providing the best care and comfort during the past few months.
Services will be held at Nakamura Mortuary on November 26, 2024: 9:00AM-10:00AM (viewing) and 10:00AM-11:00AM (service). Burial will take place at the Maui Veterans Cemetery in Makawao at 1:00PM
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