Irene "Dede" Gonsalves Wilhelm

Irene G. “Dede” Wilhelm

Irene G. Wilhelm, affectionately known as Dede, 88, of Lihue, Kauai, was born on Jan. 19, 1934 in Kohala, Hawaii.

Dede was a well-known cocktail waitress at the former Kauai Surf Hotel up until the day the hotel closed its doors.  Her charm and excellent service could never be duplicated. Locals and tourists alike would return time and time again whether for a vacation or to relax and have a cocktail at the Planter’s Bar or Golden Cape just to see her. On Nov. 18, 2022 Dede gave her “LAST CALL”. She was surrounded and embraced by her loved ones when the Almighty came and gently took her to eternal paradise.

Throughout her life she remained passionate about traveling the world, reading murder mysteries and writing and journaling. Another great passion of hers was criminal work. For 6 years, which was the term limit, she was the head of the Kauai Board of Police Commissioners. She was also a member and served on the National Board of Police Commissions. It was all very time consuming and she enjoyed every single minute.

Dede was preceded in death by parents John Gonsalves and Clarinda Pinho Gonsalves. Her brother Arthur Gonsalves, sister-in-law Winnie Crawford Gonsalves and her sons Jerry (Norma) Yahiku Jr. and Scott (Andrea) Yahiku.

Dede is survived by her husband Earl “Jack” Wilhelm, daughter Kristine (Darrell) Borrero and son Robin (Cathy) Yahiku and her most precious grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Our family would like to give a very, very special thank you to Bernie Kaeo for her unbelievable love and support. Also, a big mahalo to Kauai Hospice for all of their time and wonderful care.

Private services were held.

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