David Hartness Obituary

DAVID J. HARTNESS David J. Hartness, aged 73, of Volcano, Hawaii, passed away very unexpectedly from Mantle Cell Lymphoma at Hilo Hospital on September 12, 2023. David was born in Oswego, New York on May 21, 1950; the eldest of five children and the only son of Gladys C. Hartness and John H.C. Hartness. As a young teenager, David found himself enrolled at Waianae High School for his freshman year when his family moved from upstate New York to Oahu in 1964. He seamlessly melded with his new, unfamiliar surroundings and local culture by quickly making new friends and taking to the ocean as often as possible. After his Junior year, David transferred to Punahou School where he completed his Senior year and graduated in 1968. He also graduated from the University of Hawaii, Manoa with a bachelors degree in Travel Industry Management. Later, he earned his masters in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. David began in the restaurant and hotel industry. Later, and most recently, David was a veteran of business engagements in real estate, securities, and technology industries. Although his business opportunities and ventures kept him away from Hawaii for the majority of his life, David loved everything Hawaii offered including local dishes & delicacies. He was overjoyed when he and his wife were able to relocate to Volcano, HI about one year ago and make his dream of returning to Hawaii a reality. David enjoyed spending his down time outdoors on adventures as well as with family and friends. He also loved relaxing at home and pampering his two fury feline babies, Milo and Kalea. Being incredibly bright and enterprising David had a knack of MacGyvering his way through life just like his father before him. He was able to master anything he put his mind to and enjoyed a myriad of interests from fishing, surfing, skiing and cooking to photography. David had an infectious zest for life and would enthusiastically talk your ear off about whatever new idea had most recently captured his imagination. His laugh would fill the room and you couldn't help but laugh along. David was preceded in death by his father, John H.C. Hartness. David is survived by his wife of 26 years, Shizuko Hartness of Volcano, HI; his mother, Gladys C. Hartness of Honolulu, HI; his siblings Linda Hewitt of Mililani, HI; Dianne (Bruce) Barrett of Honolulu, HI; Paula (Allen) Platt of Holbrook, AZ, and Karen (Kevin) Francesco of North Pole, AK; along with numerous nieces and nephews. A private Celebration of Life took place on Oahu at sea off Kewalo Basin on September 28, 2023. David was put to rest in the ocean that he enjoyed and loved so much. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society in memory of David J. Hartness. Arrangements Provided By: Hawaii Ash Scatterings