Thomas Shirai Obituary

THOMAS TOSHIO SHIRAI, JR. Age 61 of Waialua, Hawaii, passed away on July 27, 2023. He was born onSeptember 29, 1961, in Honolulu, Hawaii. He retired as an airport operations controller with the Dept. of Transportation and was a decorated Coast Guard recipient of the prestigious award of a Coast Guard medal, twice. Thomas was a long-standing and active member of the North Shore neighborhood board, a proud protector of Mokuleia, and an advocate for native Hawaiians. One of his greatest achievements was to see that Dillingham Airfield changed its name to its Hawaiian origin: Kawaihapai. Keeping in line with his family's historical presence as stewards (konohiki) for the land, he fought hard to convince the legislature to rename the airfield back to Kawaihapai. He was proud to see it come to fruition and felt that he had fulfilled Grandpa David Peahi Keao's wishes. He is survived by wife Jacqueline Shirai; sons Myron Ho and Jarret Ho; grandsons: Benjamin D. George, Spencer A. George, Casey H. George; granddaughters: Kareina R. Salazar, Tiani Ho, Audrey K. Rezentes; great-grandchildren: Hallie Savellano, Jhadeize Tyler K. Salazar, Daniella George; and great-great-grandchild, Kealohilani Savellano. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Mililani Mortuary, Makai Chapel. Visitation: 9:30 a.m.; Service: 10:30 a.m. Casual attire.