Uncle John, as he will always be known to his haumana, dedicated his life to perpetuating the Hawaiian Culture. Through his teachings, generations of haumana have benefited from his nurturing. It is our hope and our responsibility to continue the efforts that Uncle John instilled in us and shared with us. With the passing of our beloved Uncle John on August 6, 2003, we knew in our heart of hearts, that Uncle John's legacy must live on....and that we, his loving haumana would strive to continue and preserve the legacy that he entrusted us with.
Because of Anakala's lifelong contribution to his haumana and the culture, we felt it only right that we honor and continue learning and loving in his name. We were blessed to have had him in our lives and extremely fortunate that he we were able to spend time with him. For him; we will strive to perpetuate the culture for many years to come, have this moment in time to come together as ohana to enjoy one another, celebrate each other and the culture known for its aloha, while we tell the world of Uncle John and his legacy.
We have the greatest honor of hosting a now semi-annual festival in his name: Keli'iokahekili Festival
We miss him greatly and hope we do his lineage proud!
On behalf of our hula sisters and brothers, Halau Hula Me Ke Aloha would like to express our deepest gratitude for the support of our families & friends who have been an integral part of helping us continue.
A special mahalo to Kumu Kawika Keikiali'i Hiwahiwa Alfiche and Halau `O Keikiali`i (formerly Halau Aloha Pumehana `O Polynesia), Kumu Kau'i Peralto, Uncle Saichi Kawahara and the Kapalakiko Hawaiian Band for taking time to malama us, guide us, comfort us, and stand by us. We know your love for Uncle John mirrors ours.
Most of all, mahalo nui loa to Auntie Bonnie, Lily, Carl and all the Manuia family here and in Hawai'i for sharing your husband, your father, your brother with us. It is because of your love and support of him, that his legacy will continue. With your continued support, presence, and love, we will continue to honor him and remember him. You have truly endeared our lives, captured our hearts and enriched our souls.
As Uncle John has showed us, we will share the beauty of hula & the spirit of Aloha....Journey with us to a world that transcends time and place & share with us the legacy of Uncle John.
We guarantee you will see why "ALOHA" is more than just a word!