NEDWARD NED NICKY BOY MATTHEWS KA`APANA Aug. 25, 1948 - April 3, 2015 Ned bid his wife farewell and then went home to the Lord on Good Friday, April 3, in Honolulu. He was a kanaka maoli, a native son of Pahala, deeply nurtured and influenced by his childhood years with his kupuna, other `ohana and neighbors. He later relocated to Kalapana to join his parents and siblings, which lifestyle and family history are already known by many. Music imbued Ned's life from keiki time to the complete man he became. He was a member of the famed Hui 'Ohana of the 1970s and '80s, bringing the bass to the forefront in his inimitable style. He harmonized and sang falsetto along with twin Ledward and cousin, the late Dennis Pavao, also playing slack key and singing lead on various mele. He continued his musical career in a range of professional and private venues, also recording with a number of other professional musicians and singers (with and without credit), eventually recording three solo albums of his own. No words can describe his singing and those who knew him heard how rich and versatile it became over the years. His accomplishments include original composition and lyrics and musical arrangements and tutelage of selective students on `ukulele, acoustical guitar and electric bass, all instruments fully self-taught and mastered through his God-given natural gift of music and through his talented parents, George Lapana and Regina "Tina" Konanui Ka`apana. Ned is equally known for his openhearted sharing of music and generosity of spirit. Certain spontaneous public and private appearances were some of his best gigs. He performed or jammed with other Hawaiian musicians, as well as those equally talented but who made a living elsewhere. He performed at many charitable events throughout his life, giving back without a second thought. He tried to be there when someone he cared for was sick, had passed away or just in need, making every day count with people who crossed his path. His presence at many pa`ina and gatherings always elevated the joy and good fun that abounded. Sweet memories! Ned is survived by his wife, Leana Keonaonaokamaile "Keonaona"; keiki Kalae and Kehaulani; four mo`opuna; siblings Ledward, Leimamo, Lehua, Trudy, Rhoda; many aunties, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, close and special friends near and far; and anyone who touched his heart that he considered `ohana. A service will be held May 1 at St. Andrew's Cathedral in downtown Honolulu. Visitation at 12:30 p.m.; service at 2 p.m. Aloha or casual attire, lei offerings only. Limited parking. The Cathedral's policy does not allow picture taking or visual or audio recordings (including those on cell phones and other electronic devices) within the Cathedral. We respectfully ask those attending or just dropping by to pay respects to abide by this policy and to remember Ned and his tribute in their hearts, just as he wished.
NEDWARD NED NICKY BOY MATTHEWS KA`APANA Aug. 25, 1948 - April 3, 2015 Ned bid his wife farewell and then went home to the Lord on Good Friday, April 3, in Honolulu. He was a kanaka maoli, a native son of Pahala, deeply nurtured and influenced by his childhood years with his kupuna, other `ohana and neighbors. He later relocated to Kalapana to join his parents and siblings, which lifestyle and family history are already known by many. Music imbued Ned's life from keiki time to the complete man he became. He was a member of the famed Hui 'Ohana of the 1970s and '80s, bringing the bass to the forefront in his inimitable style. He harmonized and sang falsetto along with twin Ledward and cousin, the late Dennis Pavao, also playing slack key and singing lead on various mele. He continued his musical career in a range of professional and private venues, also recording with a number of other professional musicians and singers (with and without credit), eventually recording three solo albums of his own. No words can describe his singing and those who knew him heard how rich and versatile it became over the years. His accomplishments include original composition and lyrics and musical arrangements and tutelage of selective students on `ukulele, acoustical guitar and electric bass, all instruments fully self-taught and mastered through his God-given natural gift of music and through his talented parents, George Lapana and Regina "Tina" Konanui Ka`apana. Ned is equally known for his openhearted sharing of music and generosity of spirit. Certain spontaneous public and private appearances were some of his best gigs. He performed or jammed with other Hawaiian musicians, as well as those equally talented but who made a living elsewhere. He performed at many charitable events throughout his life, giving back without a second thought. He tried to be there when someone he cared for was sick, had passed away or just in need, making every day count with people who crossed his path. His presence at many pa`ina and gatherings always elevated the joy and good fun that abounded. Sweet memories! Ned is survived by his wife, Leana Keonaonaokamaile "Keonaona"; keiki Kalae and Kehaulani; four mo`opuna; siblings Ledward, Leimamo, Lehua, Trudy, Rhoda; many aunties, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, close and special friends near and far; and anyone who touched his heart that he considered `ohana. A service will be held May 1 at St. Andrew's Cathedral in downtown Honolulu. Visitation at 12:30 p.m.; service at 2 p.m. Aloha or casual attire, lei offerings only. Limited parking. The Cathedral's policy does not allow picture taking or visual or audio recordings (including those on cell phones and other electronic devices) within the Cathedral. We respectfully ask those attending or just dropping by to pay respects to abide by this policy and to remember Ned and his tribute in their hearts, just as he wished.
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased
