Kenneth Kenichi Oda

Kenneth Kenichi Oda, 86, of Honolulu, passed away on June 8, 2012 at Kuakini Medical Center. He was born on August 26, 1925 in Wahiawa, the fifth child and eldest son of Tatsumi and Ishi Oda. Kenneth graduated from Mid-Pacific Institute and after serving in the military, went on to Wisconsin to further his education. He attended Stout Institute in Menomonie and later graduated from University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse in 1952. Kenneth was a skilled athlete and excelled in baseball, golf, and tennis. He returned to Hawaii and started a long career with the Department of Education as a high school teacher at Castle High School (1952-1954), Waialua High School (1954-1963) and Leilehua High School (1963-1982). He was also a baseball and football coach, as well as yearbook advisor. After retiring in 1982, he would routinely do physical exercises every morning then continue to educate himself by reading everyday, doing some mathematics and even doing penmanship exercises.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Akemi Makino Inouye Oda; sons: Perry J. Oda (spouse Alberta V.), James H. Oda (spouse Debra K.), and Jack H. Oda (spouse Marci R.). Sisters: Margaret Nosse, Gladys Aoki, and Helen Tanaka. Grandchildren: Derrick Kuraoka, Gwen Kuraoka, Shannon Arizo (spouse Scott), Jamie Ludwig (spouse Justin), Anson Oda, Jessica Oda, and Noel Oda. Great-grandchildren: Lance Kuraoka, Jelani Davis, Ericka Kuraoka, Aaron Kuraoka, and Jordyn Ludwig.

Service Information: Visitation on Tuesday, July 3, 2012 at 5:30 p.m. at Borthwick Mortuary, Mauka Chapel; Memorial Service at 6:30 p.m.