4 minute read
A Hui Hou Mapuana Torres
By the Kanuha ‘Ohana
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Frances Kahalaomapuana Kanuha Torres peacefully transitioned to Heaven on Sunday, January 23, 2022 with her family at her side, in her home in Kahalu‘u with songs & pule.
Mapuana was born to Robert M. & Doris P. Kanuha Sr. on February 10, 1953 in Honolulu. Along with her siblings, Clare, Kehau, Hilary, Bobby, Roland and Deanie she grew up in Palolo Valley; Palolo Housing to be exact. Mapuana was proud to say she “was raised in the housing.” Her childlike spirit built a strong foundation in her character that gave her such a Loving and Caring heart to serve God, her family, and her friends. She graduated from Kaimuki High School, Class of 1971, then went on to higher education, and then into the workforce.
In 1971, Mapuana met the love of her life, Harvey Torres. They were married on January 6, 1973, and started their family; Nelson Kalepa, Neldine Kahalaomapuana, Nelissa Kauilani and Nelden Kamakaliulani Torres. In their 49 years of marriage, Harvey and Mapuana were Blessed with 4 children and children in-laws, 13 grandchildren and their first great grandchild. Mapuana was the matriarch of her family who ensured everyone was well fed, well dressed, clean and safe. She enjoyed teaching her children and grandchildren how to cook, bake, sew and make haku leis.
Aunty Mama as she is lovingly known to many of her nieces and nephews, is that special Aunty who will be greatly missed by all. She was very meticulous in keeping a clean and tidy home and enjoyed learning new things; even participating in marathons four times! She finished the Honolulu Marathons and the Great Aloha Run!
Lei Hala overlayed over a photo of the setting sun.
Mapuana was proud of her Hawaiian heritage with deep family roots, from Kahakuloa to Makena to Kaupō on the island of Maui. She enjoyed time spent with family on their ancestral lands that’s been in their family for many generations, in Naopu‘u, Kaupō, Maui. As a proud and humbled Hawaiian, she understood her kuleana and desired to stand with our Lāhui at Maunakea, so she went! She enjoyed her time on the Mauna with our Lāhui, attending lectures and participating in the daily protocols. Always open to learn.
Mapuana worked at various places, however, she started her career at the Hawaii State Hospital in the early 90’s, as the Account Clerk in the Business Office. She later transferred to the Medical Services Department as the Office Assistant and was promoted in 2019 to Administrative Assistant. Her responsibilities were to manage and provide support to the patients and doctors. Mapuana’s work was purposeful and fulfilling. She understood her position was vital in serving people. She enjoyed and loved her co-workers as they were her extended ‘Ohana! After 30 years of service at the Hawaii State Hospital, Mapuana retired in December 2021. Her plans were to move to Maui after retirement.
On April 9, 2021, Mapuana was diagnosed and began chemotherapy. During this time of her journey, Mapuana wrote many of her thoughts and feelings in her journal and BIBLE. Upon completing her last treatment, her diagnosis was the same, terminal.
In her last day’s on this side of GLORY, Mapuana’s FAITH in GOD gave her STRENGTH, COMFORT and PEACE. She embraced GOD’S GOODNESS and understood, healing doesn’t always happen on this side of GLORY. JESUS CHRIST is her LORD AND SAVIOR and HE received this beautiful ANGEL unto himself, Frances Kahalaomapuana Kanuha Torres on Sunday, January 23, 2022.
