Memorial Services Set for Charles Kaupu on Maui and O’ahu

By Wendy Osher

Charles K. Kaupu Jr. File photo by Wendy Osher.

The family of Kumu Charles K. Kaupu Jr. will hold memorial services on O’ahu and Maui to celebrate his life and light. Kaupu passed away unexpectedly on July 12 at the age of 53. He was a kumu, chant teacher, and performer.

“Kumu Charles, like many Hawaiians was raised a Christian but still lived and honored his Hawaiian belief system,” family members said in a statement. “His family has chosen to honor both his practices by holding a Christian service at Kaumakapili Church on O’ahu and than a traditional customary ceremony on Maui.”

A Christian service will be held at the Kau-maka-pili Church on O’ahu with visitation at 3 p.m., and a service at 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 4th.  The O’ahu services will be conducted by Charles’ Uncle Kahu Kaupu and his friend Kahu Kamanu.

A separate service will be held on Maui on the morning of Saturday, August 20 at the Old Lahaina Luau grounds. The Maui services will observe traditional and ancient Hawaiian protocols.

Kumu Kaha’i Topolinski will lead the ceremony.  He has instructed that no pahu, nose flute or conch shell be used in the procession.  The use of any type of recording devices is also prohibited. Children under 12, unless they are accompanying immediate family, will not be allowed to enter. Seating will begin at 11 a.m., and entrance will be closed once the procession is complete at 11:45 a.m.

The Maui services will be followed by a scattering of ashes at Ka-o-pala Bay in Kahana, and a Celebration of Charles at the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua.  Musicians and hula halau who wish to pay tribute are welcome at the Ritz Carlton gathering and should contact Clifford Naeole at [email protected]​m.

Family members extended their thanks and gratitude to those who have expressed their aloha as they deal with their recent loss.

Inquires, comments or photos can be sent to [email protected].