Jaudon Koakanupalekaluhikahikio`ewa Kaneali`i

Jaudon “Koko” Koakanupalekaluhikahikioʻewa Kanealiʻi passed away at home on July 25, 2025 at the age of 78. He was born on July 5, 1947 in Honolulu, T.H.

He graduated from Castle High School in 1965 and when the military called he enlisted in the US Army during the Vietnam War. He was a professional musician (percussionist) at 15, playing at the military bases in the Pacific with the 5 Psychos. After the service he continued his musical career in Waikīkī where he was known as the “barefoot drummer.” He worked with Iva Kinimaka, Don Ho, Nephi Hannemann, Barry Kim, Kimo and Loyal Garner, Zulu, Jan Brenner and more. He came to Kauaʻi in 1979 for a music gig and never left. On Kauaʻi along with music he was known for his Pen and Ink drawings, as a DJ at KIPO/KQNG and an MC for too many events to name. Over the years he had the opportunity to have speaking parts in an episode of Hawaiʻi 5-0, Honeymoon in Vegas, and The Descendants. In 2003 he became a Kahu officiating weddings, vow renewals, and blessing houses, businesses, various island events, Celebrations of Life, and children.

He was preceded in passing by his Tutu Man and Tutu Lady, Robert Moewai and Julia Uʻo Mahuiki Kanealiʻi, his Valley Grandpa and Grandma, William Kauauanuiamahi and Flora Kapaeloli Miles, his parents, Roger Moʻikeha Kanealiʻi, Sr. and Rena Liliha Kanealiʻi, and his niece PJ Kaʻeʻeonalanikalaniumi Ah Loo.

Koko is survived by his wife, Julie Kanealiʻi; daughter, Kaʻili Kanealiʻi; sister, Rogerlyn Kanealiʻi-Wakinekona; brothers, Al (Donna) Kanealiʻi and Roger (Maha) (Diane) Kanealiʻi, Jr., daughter-in-law, Kayla Klebesadel, grandchildren, Brynn, Keawe and Hanakoa; and numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and his dog Uʻi.

He lived a big life, embracing everyone in his path with a smile, his welcoming laugh, and if needed, a helping hand. His life was guided by the principles of ALOHA, and he never missed an opportunity to proudly share his Kanaka Maoli culture.

Mahalo nui loa to the Veteran’s Administration, the VAPIHCS Kauaʻi Community Based Outpatient Clinic, Wilcox Hospital, Kauaʻi Oncology Institute and Life’s Bridges Hawaiʻi, Inc. for all of their support and assistance.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, November 14 at Lydgate Park Main Pavilion from noon to 9:00pm. Casual Aloha attire is requested. Bring a lei to wear and share. A scattering of his ashes will be held at a later date with his immediate family.

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