Robert Joseph Longhi's Obituary
Visionary restaurateur, philosopher, and raconteur, Bob Longhi, who created a culinary mecca in Lahaina that synergized perfectly with the impossibly beautiful island of Maui, left us on July 30, 2012, surrounded by his entire family, after suffering a heart attack early on the morning of July 27, from which he did not regain consciousness.Bob, a Cornell graduate, who also achieved legendary status in his first career, in the insurance industry, possessed leadership, intellectual, and charismatic qualities that one prominent business colleague compared to John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Indeed, one of the Beatles, George Harrison, was so taken by Longhi’s persona that he wrote a song about a week they spent together in Hana, and dedicated the song to him. Bob founded Longhi’s Restaurant in Lahaina Maui in 1976, followed by Longhi's Wailea and Longhi's Ala Moana in Honolulu.Bob, who had everlasting love for his family, and enjoyed innumerable friendships, is survived by his children, Gabrielle Longhi, Carol O’Leary, Peter Longhi, Charlie Longhi and Genafer Longhi; his grandchildren Julian, Isabelle, Tait, Olivia, Lily, and Leonardo; his first wife, Sally, and second wife, Gail.Much has been said of the career and life of this visionary man, of his accomplishments in business, and as a restaurateur and chef, but to truly see the successes of Mr. Longhi, one needs only to look into the eyes of his children when they speak of him…They are a perfect reflection of his loving spirit. Bob Longhi’s presence changed Maui in so many beautiful ways… He will be greatly missed…
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?