Eugene "Gino" B. Feliciano, known to ocean-sport friends as the "Mayor of Makapuu," died at 69 in his favorite waters while bodysurfing April 30.Gino was born March 1, 1952 to Henry and Clothilda Feliciano. Except for National Guard duty on the Big Island and the Mainland in his youth, he lived his entire life on Oahu.
He was a grounds maintenance worker for Sea Life Park and other Windward properties, still working part-time in "retirement" with the plants and outdoor settings he loved. But he took every chance to be with his many waterman friends in the ocean from Sandy Beach throughout Waimanalo, especially Makapuu.
Gino had at least three families. Of his siblings, he is survived by brothers: Shannon Feliciano and Eduardo Luna; sisters: Elizabeth Gaylord, Geraldine Young, and Dee Ann Weber. He is also survived by friend and former wife Loki Feliciano.
Gino moved in with a group of young people more than 40 years ago, and lived in the Knox-Evans household thereafter. Survivors include two children he helped raise as their "Uncle Braddah," Rockey and Mickey, along with their parents John and Mary Alice.
His largest family lives on the Waimanalo beaches and waters - Josh, David, Eric, many others. All his families will miss him.
A friend remembered: "Gino, more than anybody I know, lived for the day. He was fully present for his job, and certainly joyfully present in the water. He kept your household safe and level, like an anchor hidden below the boat."
Services will be private.
Arrangements Provided By:
Diamond Head Mortuary Chapel
