Isamu Iwaishi's Obituary
Isamu Iwaishi, 95, of Wailuku, passed away peacefully on October 30th, 2024 at Hale Makua Kahului. A celebration of life will be held on November 15th 2024 at Nakamuras. Visitation will start at 4:30pm and services will begin at 5:30pm.
Isamu was born in Olinda on February 25th, 1929 and grew up in Makawao. He was lovinly referredto as "Papa" by close family and "Massie" by close friends. He was married to his beloved wife Barbara Iwaishi for 64 wonderful years before she passed away in 2021.
Isamu worked construction at Kahului Development Company then as a foreman for Fuku Construction and retired in 1985. He also served in the Korean War as a Radio Operator and Combat Engineer.
Isamu exemplified the term "work hard, play hard" and always enjoyed his beer. He loved to golf, sing, play his ukulele, cook, and spend time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He volunteered his time and expertise to the Wailuku Hongwanji and was always lending a helping hand to others with their projects.
Isamu had an unforgettable personality that lit up every room he entered, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His warmth, humor, and kindness touched so many lives, and he will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Isamu is survived by his brother Ryuichi Iwaishi (Sandra), and beloved daughter Robyn Deeks (Steven). Grandchildren Mitchel Deeks, Ashley Lau, Jodi Yanagida (Justin), Noah Tomooka and great grandchildren Peyton and Greyson Lau. He is predeceased by wife Barbra Iwaishi, daughter Stacie Hisamoto, brothers Melvin Isoji Iwaishi (Yukie), Masami Allan Iwaishi (Haruye), Tetsuo Iwaishi (Misao), Yoshito (Gladys) and sister Masae Honda (Yoshito), Suzuko Dorothy Iwaishi.
Mahalo to Hale Makua Kahului & Wailuku, the nursing staff at Maui Memorial Medical Center and Maui Hospice for their excellent services and care.
What’s your fondest memory of Isamu?
What’s a lesson you learned from Isamu?
Share a story where Isamu's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Isamu you’ll never forget.
How did Isamu make you smile?