MARYJANE LEIMOANA KEKAHUNA COILA
MaryJane "MJ" lived 30 years on the mainland in Washington State. She was an avid snow-skier, who loved travel and her family and was especially delighted in her grandchildren. She also enjoyed biking and completed the 200 mile Seattle to Portland bicycle classic or "STP" multiple times. MJ was proud of her volunteerism with the Fort Vancouver historical society where she helped to educate the public on the contributions of Hawaiian people to the history of the Pacific Northwest. She was also a ski adviser for Mt. Hood Meadows and organized weekly ski buses for over 15 years. After returning home to Hawaii in 2002 she was an active member and trustee of Kawaiaha'o church and enjoyed time spent with her Kamehameha classmates.
MaryJane bravely battled cancer for nearly two years but didn't allow it stop her from enjoying life. She was planning a trip to Greece, Italy and to see the Holy land this fall. Six days before her passing she fulfilled another one of her dreams by taking a starlight ride on the Hokulea sailing canoe. She was a strong independant and spiritual woman who's last days were peaceful as a result of her enduring faith in Ke Akua.
She is survived by her son, Kahala Coila; daughters, Mahealani Coila and Makani Maeva and son-in-law Dean Maeva; sister, Lani (Lee) Bretzfelder of Virginia, brothers Daniel (Bertha) Kekahuna of Kaneohe and Terrace (Tica) Kekahuna of Ho'olehua Molokai. Grandchildren Isabella Coila Irons, Keanae Coila, Helela, Ka'aha and Iliahi Maeva as well as a large extended family. She is predeceased by her brother Loke (Wendy) Kekahuna of Kaunakakai Molokai and her granddaughter Kahea Coila.
"Mamo" as her grandchildren called her encouraged us to "delight in the journey". We encourage her to do the same in the next step of her journey. She was loved and will be missed.
Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society of Hawaii 2370 Nuuanu Ave. Honolulu, HI 96817 (808) 595.750 |
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased