Obituaries for February 15

Remembering the lives of those who have passed in Hilo, Hawaii

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Hawaii Tribune-Herald reports on the obituaries for several individuals who have recently passed away in the Hilo, Hawaii area, including a retired plumber, a longtime hula teacher, a farmer and vendor, a retired school food services manager, and a member of a local church.

Why it matters

Obituaries provide an important record of the lives and legacies of community members, honoring their contributions and allowing loved ones to grieve and celebrate their memory. These notices highlight the diversity of Hilo's population and the ways in which residents have shaped the local culture and economy over the decades.

The details

The obituaries cover a range of professions and backgrounds, including a retired plumber, a fourth-generation hula teacher, a farmer and vendor, a retired school food services manager, and a member of a local church. Several of the deceased are survived by large extended families, reflecting the importance of kinship ties in Hawaiian culture.

  • Patrick Glen De Sa died on December 31, 2025.
  • Faith Nalani Kanaka'ole died on January 3, 2026.
  • Anacleto 'Lito' Lahip Sr. died on January 17, 2026.
  • Eileen Anohea Naboa died on January 26, 2026.
  • Lucille Alana Mew Lun Vesperas died on January 18, 2026.

The players

Patrick Glen De Sa

A 76-year-old retired plumber with De Sa Plumbing in Hilo, Hawaii.

Faith Nalani Kanaka'ole

A 79-year-old fourth generation kumu hula for the Halau o Kekuhi, teaching hula for more than 60 years.

Anacleto 'Lito' Lahip Sr.

An 83-year-old farmer, vendor at Kawaihae Farmers Market, and former worker for the Hawaiian Sugar Planters' Association.

Eileen Anohea Naboa

A 68-year-old retired school food services manager for the state Department of Education.

Lucille Alana Mew Lun Vesperas

An 80-year-old member of Glad Tidings Church in Hilo.

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The takeaway

These obituaries highlight the diverse lives and contributions of Hilo residents, from longtime community leaders to those who worked in essential local industries. Their passing is a loss for the Hilo community, but their legacies will continue to shape the culture and character of the town.