Michael de Ycaza Obituary

Michael Christopher de Ycaza 1951-2023 - age 72 Upon his high school graduation in 1969 in Barrington, IL, Mike traveled the world, ultimately arriving on Oahu in 1973. He was first employed at Pearl Harbor Naval Base as a rigger, then as a taxi driver at night. An actor, who was one of his early taxi fares in 1976, encouraged Mike to also become an actor, advising him to take lessons and try auditioning for stage work as well. Mike first was a bit player in the HPAC (now MVT) production of a Charlie Chan mystery then did Shakespeare at UH with his former taxi fare. In 1995, he appeared in an "original practices" production of The Taming of the Shrew at Diamond Head Theatre which gave him the opportunity to be a charter member of the Shakespeare On Sunday Reading Group for almost 30 years. His curiosity of world cultures inspired his travels to many rare areas of the world, widening his knowledge to later acting roles on major TV shows like Lost, Hawaii 5-0, Magnum, P.I. (1983 & 2018), Disney's Doogie Kamealoha, M.D., and most recently, the film Lilo & Stitch. Mike was a seeker of new experiences. He leaves behind many friends he met over the years within SAG-AFTRA, improv & theatre groups, and Sufi dancing. Mike was an accomplished chess player. He enjoyed woodworking and teaching to touring schools. He was a passionate organic farmer, a loving son and later, live-in caretaker, to his Mom (Fran) in her last years. Mike was found deceased in his home on July 24th of apparent natural causes. He is preceded in death by his father (Mariano), mother (Francelia) and sister (Suzanne). He is survived by his niece Marisol (Brian) Stork, and grand-nephew and niece, Jack and Marin. For those who wish to make a donation in remembrance of Mike deYcaza, please consider donating to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation Emergency Financial Assistance Fund at members.sagfoundation.org/donate, or to the Sufi Mevlevi Order of America at www.hayatidede.org. Arrangements Provided By: Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC