ERIC EUGENE KAMAKAHIA’AI CHANDLER
67, passed away peacefully June 27, 2019 at Hilo Medical Center.
Born and raised in Puyallup, Washington, Chandler moved to Hawaii at age 17 to attend University of Hawaii at Hilo. He later went to Japan to study Japanese at Tokai University, and then moved to Honolulu, where he worked at Bagwell’s 2424 as a sommelier. He also was a talented artist and designer, as well as a mentor and life coach for many of Hawaii’s successful actors and models.
Chandler also designed gowns for numerous beauty pageants and red carpet events, produced countless fashion shows and special events, dressed many local celebrities and Hawaii first ladies, and traveled the world to promote the state with Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau. In 2017, he moved back to Hilo, where he enjoyed retirement and was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Eric was known by those who loved and knew him well for his outlandish humor and personality. He was truly a local boy at heart, and embraced Hawaii’s melting pot of diverse ethnic groups. He made Hawaii his home, and chose to live and pass in paradise.
He is survived by lifetime partner Takeo and Chibi, their baby queen Pomeranian. He also has a sister Jodi and niece Jarah.
A memorial service will be held Aug. 10 at 4 p.m., followed by a celebration of life from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Hawaii Kai Ward, 219 Lunalilo Home Road. |