It is with a heavy heart that I write to tell of the passing of one of Hawaii's most celebrated talents, Don Ho, who passed today at the age of 76.  This story is not about his passing as much as it is about the impact he had on others.  Those close to him and those who knew him from a far.  From thousands of miles away Don Ho left his impression on everyone he touched.

My grandmother in law, was one who loved and reverred him from afar.  One of her dreams was to put her toes into the sand in Waikiki and see Don Ho.  Not only did she see his show, she received his kiss.  It made her day, and her year - probably one of the most distinct memories she carried with her.  Don Ho left a significant impact on all he touched.

I recall the first time I knew what Don Ho was, he was singing "Tiny Bubbles" on TV.  I was a kid when he first sang that song, but he was already a worldwide sensation.  I think it was in the 1960's (am I that old?).  It was to be decades after I moved to Hawaii that I would cross paths with the famed entertainer and experience his light warmheartedness and Aloha Spirit first hand. 

I first met Don Ho through a longtime friend (Richard Faun) and his then assistant, Haumea Heibenstriet, who at the time and at present represents is so much more than that in his life.  I was taken by her protectiveness of the man, and the image, but also at her heart.  She was a big part of his life.  In those days, I hadn't been to a Don Ho show, but knew of him through people who were a generation ahead of mine.  After meeting Haumea, I was invited with friends and family, to attend his show at what used to be know as the Waikiki Beachcomber.  That show was my first exposure to the living icon.

I've been in Hawaii now 28, almost 29 years and when I think of Aloha, it is synonomous with Don Ho and the people he associated himself with.  I attended his show back in the late 90's.  It was a fun, and eventful experience.  He took the time to get to know each of us and took a group photo.  I even received one of the coveted "post-show" kisses.  The woman who was responsible for us attending that event and meeting Don Ho, was his later to be wife, Haumea.  She danced in his show, never took the limelight and was always there when he needed her.

I had lunch at his and Haumea's  bequest when I was in technology back in the early 2000's.  Don was in great health and spirit and ever his flirtatious self offering to teach me golf with his unique style of giving lessons.  I remember thinking how many women in previous generations would have given their eye tooth to be sitting where I was.  It took place at a restaurant owned by Fred Livingston and carrying his name, called, of course, Don Ho's  located in Aloha Tower. He wasn't often in the restaurant, and when he was, he would have a big floppy hat on.  Tourists rarely detected his presence as he was always flying under the radar.   He was funny, unguarded and well protected.  His friends always helped look after his best interests.   

I was happy to see that after some health issues, he had married his long time companion and best friend, Haumea.  My thoughts and prayers go out to Haumea his love, and his family.  I am blessed to have crossed paths by such an incredible man, and even more so by the friends he chose to surround himself with.  In celebration of his life...   Thank you for the lasting impression you made on all of us.  With Warm Aloha...