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The Chung and Greene families are saddened to announce the passing of their beloved brother and uncle, Michael D.H. Chung on May 7, 2020. Known affectionately as "Chungie", he passed peacefully after 5 months of medical complications on May 7, 2020, a week before his 60th birthday, at Straub Medical Center.He was born in Palama on May 14, 1960, but at age 5, the family moved to Halawa Estates where he attended Halawa Elementary School, Aiea Intermediate, and graduated from Aiea High School in 1978. During these early years, his love of baseball ignited primarily through the influence of his dad, Harry, who played in numerous adult leagues, and was supported by his loving mother, Mabel. They never missed any of his little league, high school, and UH games.
The highlight of Michael's college years at the University of Hawaii was his love and passion for the Rainbows baseball team! Despite challenges and setbacks, Michael never gave up, and through his relentless hard work and perseverance he joined the team from 1981-1983, till his graduation with a degree in Travel Industry Management. He inspired, gained recognition by his teammates and coaches, and in true, Chungie form, provided laughter and encouragement even in the most critical times. As his closest teammate and longtime friend, Tok quoted, Chungie was the "Ultimate Rainbow Warrior." His countless friends will remember, be inspired by his compassion, generosity, strength, perseverance, and relentless humor and wit.
It was probably during those Rainbow years that his testament originated: "Baseball is Life." He would always say that what he learned during the "baseball years", guided him, and challenged him to attain the Warrior spirit which sustained him till the end.
While at the UH, he worked part-time at the Kahala Hilton, and after graduation a few years at Hawaiian Tel selling pagers, of which he excelled at, and earned Salesman of the Month several times.
His absence is felt greatly by his loving family: brother, Steven (Patricia), sister Harrilyn Greene, nephew, David Greene, II (Jessica), and niece, Courtney Chung (Damien Patterson.) His great-nephews, Dante Patterson, David Greene, III, and Declan Greene brought much joy to his life as with his cherished goddaughter, Ashley Nakagawa.
The family will be hosting a luncheon with relatives and friends.
Acknowledgements will be donated to the
University of Hawaii Rainbows Baseball team.
