Edwin "Eddie" or "Eka" Kiyoshi Awakuni, age 77, passed away on August 19, 2021, at Straub Medical Center, surrounded by his wife of 56 years, Judy, and their children. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Eddie graduated from Kaimuki High School and honorably served with the United States Marine Corps. Eka worked for the Honolulu Police Department (HPD) for nearly 30 years, was the initial public face and organizer of HPD's Crime Stoppers program, and received the City and County of Honolulu's Employee of the Year Award in 1980. He began the Law Enforcement Explorer Scouts program in Hawaii, and received the Silver Beaver Award, the highest award bestowed on adult volunteers, from the Boy Scouts of America's Aloha Council. Eka loved to golf, made clubs for friends starting the game, and was actively involved with the Tele-Cop Golf Club, until illness ended his ability to play. He also loved wood carving and often donated hand-made plaques to organizations. His 5' x 7' koa wood carving, dedicated to police officers fallen in the line of duty, hangs on the 2nd floor of the HPD headquarters building. Eddie also volunteered his time, personality and voice-talent with the Hawaii United Okinawa Association, serving as master of ceremonies for the Okinawan Festival and several other cultural events.Eddie is survived by his wife, Judy, three children and their spouses, five grandchildren, and three siblings. On November 8, 2021, Eddie's family placed his remains at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Columbaria Court 13, L 507. A public Celebration of Life is planned for May 20, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. at the Hawaii Okinawa Center Legacy Ballroom in Waipio.
Arrangements Provided By: Oahu Mortuary
