In Memory of Melvin Everett Shigeo Kekuewa

Melvin Everett Shigeo Kekuewa passed away peacefully on September 12, 2024, at the age of 83. Mel departed this world surrounded by his loving ohana in Washington, DC.

Mel was born on March 2, 1941, in Honolulu, Territory of Hawai’i. He grew up on the beautiful beaches of Oahu, became an avid surfer and dedicated lifeguard, and graduated Kamehameha Schools in 1959. He took great pride in his Native Hawaiian culture and shared the spirit of aloha with everyone he met.

Mel served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam Era as an aircraft mechanic at Holloman AFB, New Mexico, and was deeply grateful for the compassionate care he received later in life from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Bell Helicopter Company recruited him as an expert mechanic and he also fabricated aeronautical prototypes as an innovative machinist for North American Rockwell.

Drawn to California by his love for the ocean and sailing, Mel started a new career as an electrician at Paramount Studios. With his drive, talent, and creativity, he founded Kekuewa Lighting & Grip Works and became a top lighting director in the industry. His artistic contributions to countless major motion pictures, music videos, and high-end commercials will be cherished for years to come.

Mel is preceded in death by his parents Jonathan and Margaret Motoe Kekuewa, siblings Stephen and Joanne Kekuewa, and daughter Leilani Teresa Kekuewa. He is survived by his children Tona Kekuewa, Monica Kekuewa, Melissa (Kieron Moore) Walker, Malia (Mark) Kekuewa, Mailani (Sebastian Kwon) Kekuewa, Makena Kekuewa, and Brandon (Tamra) Burling. He was also blessed with 11 grandchildren, a great-grandson, and many nephews, nieces, close family, and friends.

A service to honor Mel’s life will be held at Diamond Head Memorial Park at a later date where family and friends may gather to offer their respects. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mel’s honor to the American Heart Association.

We send off our beloved father, grandfather, and friend with a warm smile and shakamay you rest in aloha, with fair winds and following seas, a hui hou.