Nalani-Alua Olds Napoleon

Nalani-Alua Olds Napoleon, a beloved cultural treasure of Hawai i, passed away on September 13, 2024, at her home in Kailua. She leaves behind a profound legacy of service to Hawaiian culture, community, and heritage. As an entertainer, educator, and advocate, Nalani shared the values and traditions of Hawai i with people around the world.
Born into a family of entertainers, Nalani followed in the footsteps of her father, Kenneth Thomas Olds Sr., one of Hawai i's foremost male hula dancers of the 1920s, and her mother, Margret Nearing Olds, a renowned singer, tightrope walker, and actress. Nalani herself became a talented singer, hula dancer, and model, captivating hearts with her grace and presence.
Nalani began her career as a hula dancer with the Halekulani Girls. She performed with Haunani Kahalewai, Al Harrington, Ed Kenney, and Danny Kaleikini, Charles KL Davis and many others. She was also a soloist with the Royal Hawaiian Band, even performing at Carnegie Hall, where she brought the spirit of Hawai i to an international stage.
Nalani has two solo albums. She recorded Women of the Throne with Leo Anderson Akana, and has numerous recordings with various artists. Nalani was recognized by the Hawai i Academy of Recording Arts for a Na Hoku Hanohano Lifetime Achievement Award.
Nalani created He Po ai Aloha, a musical program in collaboration with the State Library System, which showcased songs from The Queen's Songbook. Her dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture earned her an invitation to present the program at the Smithsonian Institution, further solidifying her global influence in cultural preservation.
Nalani also founded He Ala Kulaiwi: An Ancestral Pathway, an educational program that empowered incarcerated men and women through Hawaiian spirituality and self-identity. Nalani was a fierce advocate for women and children affected by substance abuse and domestic violence. She played a crucial role in educating military bases on the proper respect for iwi kupuna, pushing for the implementation of NAGPRA laws to protect them. She is most remembered for her over 40 years of service to the Mokapu Iwi Kupuna.
Nalani's contributions to the community were vast, including her work with Iolani Palace, the Hawaii Addiction Center, and the Kupuna-in-the-Schools Program. Nalani also held several leadership roles, including serving as Vice Chair of the University of Hawai i Committee for the Preservation of Hawaiian Language, Art, and Culture, and as Trustee-At-Large for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
Nalani and her husband, Allen N. Napoleon, envisioned and re-created the permanent hula mound at Moanalua Gardens, known as Pa Kama ipu upa a. They founded the celebrated Prince Lot Hula Festival, a cornerstone of Hawaiian culture, which she co-chaired with Wendell Silva. Nalani is now with her husband who passed in 1981.
Nalani is survived by her daughters: Kulamanukeakealani M. "Manu" (Kappy), Kauikeolani E. "Kaui" (Guy), and Kaleleonalani V. "Kalele" (Omi); her son: Ali ikamanaekahi E.A. "Ali i" Napoleon (Pa a); brother: Kenneth T. Olds, Jr. "Kenny" (Haunani); sisters: Francine P. McLaughlin "Frani" (Bob) and Mauliola Aspelund (Dan); her grandchildren: David Mathew Pamahoa Keolaloa Lang (Dorothy), Kalanikapu Sonny Copp, Hopoekalehua ulaoHilo Napoleon, Kuali i Sanoe Copp, Emma Nalani-Alua Napoleon, Manaea Napoleon, and Pi ilani Napoleon; and her great-grandchildren: Jacob Kahili ulaaPi ilani Lang, Isaac Kahaka ioikalahiki Lang, and TeAo Hali imaile Kamapomaika i Sunada.
Recognized as a Living Treasure of Hawai i, Nalani's legacy of aloha and cultural stewardship will continue to inspire future generations. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Memorial services will be held at Kailua Beach Park on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 9 a.m. Aloha attire or beach attire is requested.