Henry Buddie Bissen's Obituary
Henry Buddie Bissen, 64, passed away peacefully at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada on December 7, 2022. He is the son of the late John J. Bissen Jr. and Helen F. Bissen (Apo), both of Kahului, Maui. Henry was born on July 6, 1958, at Maui Memorial Hospital.
The family moved from Maui to Oahu, where Henry attended Enchanted Lakes Elementary School and St. Anthony’s School in Kailua, in 1968 business promotions made a major move for the family once again to West Garden Grove in California where he graduated from Pacifica High School and advanced to Golden West College majoring in business.
Henry was a talented musician and his love for electric guitars allowed him to pursue a career at the renowned Marshall Fender Music Company in Corona, California. He became a certified luthier with the company, an artisan gifted in design, creation, and the repair of guitars for renowned guitarists knowing the quality of work coming from the company. His creativity flourished as he carved several electric guitars which he showcased on stage during his performance with his band around the clubs of Los Angeles such as the Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood, California.
His passion for music and natural ability to understand rhythm, tones, and pitches to create harmonious melodies was reflected in his talent and “ear for music” as he often played simply by listening to a song one time.
Henry was a profound athlete and could often be found surfing the California shores of Huntington Beach and Seal Beach. He will be remembered for his quick one-liners and comical humor which often brought smiles to people’s faces.
Henry is survived by his mother, Helen (Apo) Bissen, and 3 sisters, Tieri Pa’ahana Bissen, Roxane Kaleiohu (Bruce) Whitney and Johnen Healani (Mark) Akiona. His nephew and nieces who dearly loved him: Sean J Whitney, Leah Roxane Whitney, Helen Tieri Whitney, Paulina Ululani Akiona and Kristina Leikukuiokalani Akiona. Henry is also beloved by his surviving paternal Uncle Francis (Teresa) Bissen and maternal Aunties Viola (Apo) Hanaike and Bath Sheba Ka’ahumanu (Jack) Stevens.
We'll miss his note in our family chord...
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