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Gilbert "Sooky" N. Fernandes, 91, of Kahului, Maui, passed away peacefully at his son's home on January 24, 2023, in Mililani, Oahu, after a period of failing health.
Gilbert was an engineer; computer and electronics expert; DIY enthusiast; and avid tennis player. A Punahou alumnus, he graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with mechanical engineering and mathematics degrees.
He retired as engineering services manager from Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company (HC&S) on Maui in 1993. He was a member of the Kauai Board of Supervisors (now County Council) and served on the Hawaii Statewide Health Coordinating Council. He was also an active Rotary Club of Kahului participant for many years.
Gilbert was preceded in death by his wife, Nira N.; parents Frank B. and Emily S.; brother Raymond C.; and sister Dorothemae Fernandes Drumeller.
He is survived by his partner, Penny A. Kamoku; daughter Desiree A. McKenzie; sons: Gilbert N. Jr. (Sue Botti), Frank B., Guy D. (Andrea) and Kirk J. (Karen Rowan); grandchildren: Braxton, Tyler, Cody, Emily, Kristen, Ashley, Aubrey, Alina, Alyssa, Lexi, Elliana, and Cace; great-grandchild Braylee; sister Adrienne "Renee" F. Thronas as well as many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Catholic Mass and Celebration of Gilbert's Life will be held at St. Catherine Church in Kapaa, Kauai, on Saturday, March 25, 2023. Family, friends, and acquaintances who wish to pay their respects are welcome to visit from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Funeral service and mass will follow. Burial will be at St. Catherine Cemetery immediately thereafter.
