WALTON SHIM Obituary

WALTON KT SHIM, MD May 15, 1931 - Nov. 4, 2025 Dr. Walton KT Shim died on November 4, 2025, enjoying the wilderness in Libby, Montana. He was 94 years old. After graduating from Iolani School, Dartmouth College, and Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons, Dr. Shim served as a Captain and Surgical Consultant in the US Army (196264). Following a pediatric surgery fellowship/residency in Chicago, a local-boy at heart, he returned to Hawaii in 1967 to become a pioneer in his field, notably serving as Hawaii's first and only Pediatric Surgeon in private practice for many years. His dedication to institutional leadership was immense. He rose to the rank of full Professor of Surgery and Pediatrics at the John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM) and held numerous key roles at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children (KMCWC), including Division Chief of Pediatric Surgery and multiple terms as Chief of Staff and Chief of Surgery. He was also a founding member of the Pacific Association of Pediatric Surgeons. His dedication and innovative approach to surgery saved countless young lives across the islands and the Pacific Region. Walt, as his friends and family knew him, believed in tending to life with equal parts precision and passion. His long life was a masterclass in balance: the intensity of his career, the wide-open expanse of Montana, friendly competition on the tennis courts, and the tranquil dedication to his garden. Walt was perhaps the only person who officially listed surgery as a hobby. He also believed strongly in the arts and community, serving as a passionate patron of the Honolulu Symphony and a devotee and co-founder of "Doctors in the House." When he wasn't practicing medicine or leading teams, Walt was dedicated to cultivating life in other ways. He found immense restorative joy in the outdoors, whether hunting and trekking in the rugged landscape of his Montana property and across the Hawaiian Islands. He was an avid tennis player, maintaining a dedicated court reservation for over 50 years to perfect his stroke, and a passionate gardener nurturing his vegetable garden. Walt spent his 94 years embracing life fully, always ready for the next adventure or the next project. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment, a quiet but profound love for nature, music, and a unique sense of humor. He is survived by his wife, Vicki; his children, Jennifer, Jonathan, Elizabeth, and Christopher; his former wife, Sandra; and his six grandchildren, Octavia, Brianna, Opal, Coda, Ruby, and Ellie, who will continue to share stories of his incredible drive to experience life. Walt lived large and will be deeply missed, but his family is grateful he is resting after a 94-year sprint. A celebration of life will be held on February 14, 2026 at St. Clements Church in Makiki. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to PBS Hawaii or the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (rmef.org).