Rose Kawasaki's Obituary
Rose Kawasaki (Asakura) 81, of Kula, Maui passed away on December 11, 2025 at her home after a brief battle with Bulbar ALS. Rose is survived by her husband, Roger Kawasaki, son Richard (Desiree) Kawasaki, daughter Richelle (Trevor) Lu and grandchildren Tori Lu, Miya Lu, Stacy Munoz Segura, and Trey Lu. She is also survived by brothers Leslie (Evelyn) Asakura, and Roland (Janice) Asakura. Rose was predeceased by her parents Richard and Clara Asakura along with siblings Ronald (Diana) Asakura, Judy (Mario) Cabe, and Amy (Eugene) Uchima. Rose was born on April 20, 1944 in Honolulu. She was raised in Hilo where she graduated from Hilo High School in 1962. She spent most of her youth dancing hula under the instruction of the late kumu hula, George Naope. Rose went to beauty school on Oahu before moving back to Hilo and marrying her high school sweetheart Roger. The couple lived away from Hawaii for several years, first in Winnemucca, Nevada, followed by Wake Island. Rose and her family moved back to Hawaii in 1973 where they settled on Maui. Rose worked at Stel’s Hairstyles for fifteen years followed by several years at Pots N Stuff and Fun Stuff Ink. She later became the owner of Fun Stuff where she taught silk ribbon embroidery and beading classes. She traveled to Hilo monthly to teach classes as well. Rose was a gentle and loving woman who was dedicated to her family. She also loved her friends deeply. Her favorite destination was Las Vegas and she tried her best to make sure any trip she took out of the state was one that included a stop in her favorite city. Rose traveled the world with Roger and many of their friends making more friends along the way from Canada to the Ukraine. Rose was a talented, creative artist. She will be remembered for her kind and compassionate ways. She possessed a strong, intelligent mind and the ability to bring people together, making each person feel valued and an important part of the collective. She will be greatly missed. Private services were held by her family.
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