Raymond Kama Manalo, Sr.

Mr. Raymond Kama Manalo, Sr., 79, entered into rest on November 28, 2025.

Raymond was born on April 6, 1946, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to the late Matthias Manalo and the late Rosabell Kelekolio Manalo. He is also preceded in death by his wife and mother of his children, Nancy Simonsen Manalo; his brothers, Charlie and Hughford Manalo; and first wife Kathy Khatoonian.

Left to cherish Raymond’s memories are his children: Raymond Kama Manalo, Jr. and his wife Jamie; Lahela Pualani Manalo and her husband Juan Gutierrez; and Ryann Leialoha Manalo, grandchildren: Maluhia, Anuhea, and Lehuanani; Makana, Kawena, and Kekona; and Kanoelani and Kamakalakoa. And his siblings: Matthias Manalo, Janet Maiava, and Momi Manalo, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Papa took great pride in his grandchildren, both biological and chosen, and found deep joy in being present in their lives. Some of the best memories of Papa are in the kitchen, where he cooked and sang, filling the house with warmth, laughter, and the promise of a good meal. If he had a cocktail in hand, you might hear him singing “Tiny Bubbles,” a tune that became his signature song.

He loved telling stories about growing up in Hawaii. Though he hadn’t lived there for many years, Hawaii was always his home and remained close to his heart. Sharing his Hawaiian heritage was important to him, and he was intentional about passing that along—whether by cooking his favorite local foods, watching his grandchildren dance hula, cheering them on at games, or reminding them where they came from. Papa also had a quiet way of teaching. Whether it was over a pool table, during a game of darts, or in everyday moments, he was always passing something on—skills, stories, or simple lessons in life - even giving directions by familiar landmarks like Raley’s, Bel Air, or Chevron. A lover of horse racing, Papa never lost his enthusiasm for placing a bet, and even in his later years found ways to make it to the track (bribing the boys with breakfast or lunch to drive him).

He took great pride in his friends as well, caring for them deeply and showing the same thoughtfulness. Many of those friendships became family. Papa was someone everyone seemed to know—always doing for others, making people feel cared for in both big and small way, and made people feel remembered. Papa showed love with a homecooked meal, surprise gift in the mail, flowers sent “just because,” or a handwritten letter. Writing letters was something he never let go of, continuing even in his final days, when he left behind one last “Aloha”—a goodbye filled with love and gratitude.

He will be remembered through food shared, songs remembered, handwritten notes saved, and the many stories that will continue to be told by his children, grandchildren, friends, and the community that knew him simply as Papa.

A private service or celebration of life will take place at a later date. 

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