Pikake Saffery Obituary

PIKAKE HAALILIO THOMPSON SAFFERY Our beloved Mother, "Grams", "Great Grams", 98 passed away May 8th, 2025 in Hilo, Hawaii. She was born in Paia, Maui to Isabelle M. Namauu and Charles E. Thompson. The youngest of siblings (Charles, Isabelle and Sherman), she grew up on a chicken farm in Makawao. Later the family moved to Kihei where she graduated from Baldwin HS, 1945. She then worked as a supply clerk at the Kahului Naval Air Base. Frequently, island-hopped along with extended family and friends. She was, especially, fond of Hawaii Island. Upon leaving Maui, in 1949 she worked for the Territory of Hawaii Senate when it was located in Iolani Palace. She married Solomon Hakuole Saffery Jr.(deceased) of Kapahulu, moved to Kailua in 1954 where they raised 4 children. She is survived by Jasmine M. Gonsalves (Michael), Guy T. Saffery (Kalei), Camille M. Faris (Deric), Slade H. Saffery (Laurie), 14 grandchildren (1 predeceased), numerous great grandchildren. Also survived by distant half-siblings, nieces, nephews and a host of friends in Kailua. A personal caregiver for many years, upon retiring she ventured into real estate and flipped property to secure her independent lifestyle. She was an avid reader of non-fiction Hawaiiana, local history, genealogical research and articles of old Maui; especially, if it made reference to her family and life as it was. An accomplished seamstress, she made hula garments for her daughter's performances, all on a 1950 portable Singer. She also enjoyed painting still life. "Holoholo" was an enjoyable past time to "Where ever" as Pikake put it. Puttering in her yard, reading the daily news and tackling Crossword and Sudoku puzzles, were simple pleasures. Although, Pikake was a very private person who didn't want to be fussed over, she gleefully, welcomed family and friends who popped in to "talk story". We will miss her quirky and comical remarks, like "Nuff Already!" which is exactly, how she would comment on her obituary. The family takes comfort that Pikake is reunited with her beloved Ohana who have passed before her. Memorial services may be held at a later date.