Steele Okamoto Obituary

STEELE YUICHI OKAMOTO It was the saddest day when we lost our beloved Steele on November 17, 2025. Only 38, he accomplished much as a scholar, traveler, connoisseur of delicious food, classical pianist, mechanical engineer, math and computer whiz. Steele is survived by father Grant, mother Laurie, brother Reed, and uncles, aunties and cousins. Steele spent his first eight years growing up in Pauoa, also during which time Reed was born. The family later moved to Aina Haina. He graduated from Kalani HS in 2005 and went on to attend UH Manoa, College of Engineering, where he graduated with honors with Bachelor and Masters degrees in Mechanical Engineering. When Steele was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy early in life, the family knew that it would be an uphill battle with many challenges to come. Yet Steele showed his true strength by persevering and surviving longer than the norm. His positive attitude about wanting to live and enjoy life helped him to get through the numerous times he had to deal with and endure the physical pain and suffering caused by DMD. Steele always had an infectious smile for everyone he met. You would not know what he was dealing with because he made his love for life his priority, and not the disease. He never gave up hope for relief or even a cure. Thank you to his many doctors, therapists, nurses, and staff of Kaiser Permanente, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Shriners Hospital, Rehabilitation Hospital, Dept. of Vocational Rehabilitation, Apria, and his teachers, counselors, and professors, who helped and supported his journey through life. Please help us celebrate the life of a most beautiful person. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Visitation at 3 pm, service at 4 pm, at Hosoi Garden Mortuary. Arrangements Provided By: Hosoi Garden Mortuary