Joy Kawakami Obituary
November 7, 1951-May 20, 2025
73, born in Oahu, raised in Kona. She was retired from the Department of Water Supply where she worked in Hilo and Kona for 35 years. She was a member of the Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission. A loving sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, gone too soon.
She is survived by her husband, Arthur Kawakami of Kealakekua; son, Anthony (Kirsten) Kawakami of Hilo and daughter, Janelle (Jordan) Araki of Kailua-Kona. Three grandchildren, Kayla, Ethan and Addison Araki and one great-grandson Kolton Araki. Brothers Robert and George Matsuyama of Kona; sister, Gail (Jeff) Pang of Oahu. She was the greatest JOY of our lives! Please join us in remembering her beautiful soul.
Saturday, July 19, 2025
Daifukuji Soto Mission Temple in Kona
Visitation will be from 1-2pm
Service 2-3
Lunch & Refreshments to follow in hall
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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79-7591 Mamalehoa Hwy, Kealakekua, HI 96750
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