Frederick Kenji Kaya's Obituary
Frederick Kenji Kaya passed away on August 23 at Maui Memorial Hospital from combined effects of a stroke and subsequent fall and head injury.
Fred was born in Sprecklesville, Maui as the second child of Masayuki and Natsuko Aotaki Kaya. He was a boarding student at Lahainaluna High School and graduated in 1963. He then attended New Mexico State University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He volunteered for service in the U.S. Navy, in which he became an Electronics Technician. After military service he returned to rejoin family on Maui, where he spent the remainder of his life. Fred was employed by the State of Hawaii in various capacities including as a Public Health Inspector for many years and from which he retired. He especially enjoyed vigorous outdoor activities including hiking, jogging and hunting, and participated in runs from many in Hawaii to the New York City Marathon.
Fred is survived by his wife Mimi Sook Cha No, mother Natsuko Kaya, brothers Calvin (Kathryn), Richie (Helene), Leo (Kimberly), and sister Sylvia (Carl) Sakaki, and many other relatives in Hawaii and on the U.S. Mainland.
Services will be held at Nakamura Mortuary at 4 pm on Friday, September 2.
What’s your fondest memory of Frederick?
What’s a lesson you learned from Frederick?
Share a story where Frederick's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Frederick you’ll never forget.
How did Frederick make you smile?