Jaudon “Koko” Koakanupalekaluhikahikioʻewa Kanealiʻi
July 5, 1947 – July 25, 2025
Jaudon “Koko” Koa- kanupalekaluhikahikioʻewa Kanealiʻi passed away on July 25, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on July 5, 1947 in Honolulu, T. H. Koko became a professional musician at the age of 15, playing at military bases in the Pacific. After graduating from Castle High School, he served in the Army during the Vietnam War. After completing his service, he continued his musical career in Waikīkī. Known as the “barefoot drummer” he worked with Iva Kinimaka, Don Ho, Nephi Hannemann, Barry Kim, and more. Koko moved to Kauaʻi in 1979 where he was a radio DJ and an emcee at community events. Over the years, he had speaking parts in Hawaiʻi 5-0, Honeymoon in Vegas, and The Descendants. In 2003 he became a kahu, officiating at weddings and vow renewals, and blessing houses, businesses, island events, and celebrations of life. He was predeceased by his parents Roger Moʻikeha Kanealiʻi, Sr. and Rena Liliha Kanealiʻi, and his niece PJ Kaʻeʻeonalanikalaniumi Ah Loo. Koko is survived by his wife Julie Kanealiʻi; daughter Kaʻili Kanealiʻi; sister Rogerlyn Kanealiʻi-Wakinekona; brothers Al (Donna) Kanealiʻi and Roger (Maha) (Diane) Kanealiʻi, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Kayla Klebesadel; grandchildren Brynn, Keawe and Hanakoa; and numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and his dog Uʻi. A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, November 14 at Lydgate Park Main Pavilion in Līhuʻe from noon to 9:00 p.m. Casual aloha attire is requested. Bring a lei to wear and share. A scattering of his ashes will be held at a later date.
