Hoopai, Pauline Cober's Obituary
Pauline “Penny” Hoopai
April 19, 1946 – June 2, 2026
With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of Penny Hoopai on June 2, 2026, in Kihei, Maui, at the age of 80.
Penny was born on April 19, 1946, in Flossmoor, Illinois, to Charles and Pauline Wark. She was preceded in death by her sister, Peggy, and is survived by her sister, Pat Nelson of Lahaina. Whenever Penny spoke of her childhood, it was with great love for her family. She grew up with an adventurous spirit that would eventually lead her thousands of miles from the Midwest to the island she would come to call home.
In 1974, Penny visited Maui and immediately fell in love with both the island and an island boy from Hana. Penny and Frank were married on April 15, 1978. She often described Frank as “the perfect Hawaiian husband.” Sadly, she lost him after only 16 years of marriage.
Penny loved swimming in the ocean, feeling the warmth of the sun on her face, and wearing colorful dresses with flowers in her hair. Her joy was simple, genuine, and contagious.
Throughout her career, Penny worked for several airlines—a fitting profession for someone who loved people. Later, she enjoyed a career in real estate, from which she eventually retired.
Penny’s greatest gift, however, was not her work but the love she shared so freely. While she did not have a large immediate family, many of us felt like her ohana. She never met a stranger, only friends she had not yet made. Her radiant smile could brighten any room, and her hugs could heal a broken heart.
Penny knew God and had a deep faith in His love for her and for the whole world.
If Penny could be described in one word, it would be love.
She leaves behind a community of family and friends who will cherish her memory and carry her love with them always. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in every ocean breeze, every blooming flower, every heartfelt embrace, and every act of kindness shared in her honor.
A hui hou, Penny. You were loved beyond measure and will never be forgotten.
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