Many filled the Edith Kanaka’ole Stadium in Hilo to honor and remember William “Billy” Punapaiaala Kenoi.
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Three years ago, former Hawaii Island Mayor Billy Kenoi passed after a lengthy battle with cancer.
On Saturday, dozens celebrated his life, which his family says is what he wanted.
“But this event was years in the making,” said Kenoi’s youngest sister. “And we had waited for his wishes for the majority of COVID to pass to celebrate and remember him.”
Many filled the Edith Kanaka’ole Stadium in Hilo to honor and remember William “Billy” Punapaiaala Kenoi.
He was the youngest to become Hawaii County’s mayor and was known across the state for his tell-it-like-it-is style and endless love for the place he called home.
Many described him to be a phenomenal leader and inspiration.
His daughter, Mahina Kenoi, said this speech in 2014 to Hawaii Pacific University graduates was one of his favorites.
“I know that we have his videos and his words, like still out there, so anytime I missed him, I just like to look up a speech or something,” said Mahina Kenoi. “And just like feel like he’s talking to me because that’s what he did for everyone.”
His wife, Takako Kenoi, says this celebration was more of a gathering.
They were surrounded by friends, family, community leaders, and supporters of Kenoi.
“As time goes by, it gets easier because of the people who supported Billy in his career, even when he was sick and even after he passed,” said Takako Kenoi. “I’d like to thank everybody who supported us.”
“We’re so grateful for everyone throughout like all these years, like helping us grow up like the same people that we’ve seen, like we’re here like 10 years ago when he was like campaigning and everything,” said Mahina Kenoi. “And they’re still showing up today and support of our family and a support of our community.”
Governor Josh Green said Kenoi embodies persistence, dedication, and aloha.
He ordered flags to fly at half-staff on Saturday in his honor.
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