Joseph Moses Keohokalole Jr.

Joseph Moses Keohokalole, Jr., 79, went to be with Jesus on December 18, 2019. Many of his friends knew him affectionately as "Keawe" or "Jolo". He was born on February 17, 1940, in Kāneʻohe. He graduated from Castle High School, Class of 1958, and completed a tour of duty as an Army tank mechanic. He worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator, a crane operator, and was also a member of the Operating Engineers Union. After retirement he divided his time among various interests. He spent two years studying the Hawaiian language, learning about the culture, became a strong advocate and a recognized claimant for the reinterment of ancestral remains (iwi kūpuna) on Oʻahu, Maui and Hawaiʻi island. His favorite and most enjoyable pastime was as an avid ukulele maker. He was also an active church member throughout his life. He was predeceased by his son, Kaʻimi; and is survived by his daughter, Lora Negus, and sons, Michael Fors and James Keohokalole; grandchildren, Brandy and Duncan; sister Emalia, brothers James ("Kimo"), Dennis ("Bla") and Adrian; sisters-in-law Barbara and Marilyn. Joseph's life will be celebrated on January 11, 2020, at Kaneohe Congregational Church; 9 am-visitation, 11 am-service, Noon-lunch. Burial will be at a later date at the Hawaiʻi Veterans Cemetery in Kāneʻohe.