“Animals are such agreeable friends―they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms.” ― George Eliot
Here we honor the beloved animal friends that have blessed our lives. If you would like to submit a tribute, you can do so here or download a submission form and mail it to: Arms of Aloha, Attn: Editor, 94-170 Leoleo St, Waipahu, HI 96797.
For tributes prior to 2024, please search here:
Tributes of 2026-2024
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2025
Chai Fukushima
April 1, 2011 – June 17, 2025
Chai wasn’t expected — she arrived one day, left on the porch. But fate has a way of knowing where love is needed most. Matt and Chiako hadn’t planned on bringing a dog into their lives at that moment — but Chai, with her warm eyes and quiet sweetness, made the choice easy. She didn’t just join the family. She completed it. Named in keeping with Jaemi’s endearing trend of food-inspired pet names, “Chai” suited her perfectly — comforting, warm, and full of quiet strength. As a true poi dog, she carried the gentle, loyal heart of the islands. Loved dearly by her people — Matt, Chiako, Mike, Jan, Tina, Jaemi, and even Kuro Neko — Chai made every life she touched better, simply by being herself.
She had quirks that made her uniquely Chai: hiding her face in the corners of rooms, finding
safety and peace in small, tucked-away spaces and even chasing chickens at the farm. She had
gourmet taste — a connoisseur of chicken broth soup, steak, and eggs. And she had a passion for
the world beyond the porch: car rides, camping trips, beach walks at Ala Moana, and boat rides
to the Kaneohe Sand Bar. Every adventure was made more beautiful with Chai beside them. She
was smart, too — learning to sit, shake, and lay down all in a single day. But it was her heart, not
just her tricks, that left a lasting impression. The memories she created with Matt and Chiako —
curled up in a hammock under the stars, walking through Waikiki — those are the kinds of memories that last forever.
When Chai was diagnosed with cancer and given only months to live, it felt like the world had turned too cruel too fast. But Chai wasn’t finished. She still had more life to live, more memories to make. So Matt and Chiako made her a bucket list — and Chai, with her quiet strength and gentle stubbornness, lived nearly two more years and checked off every single thing. She didn’t just defy the odds — she redefined them.
Chai showed her family what it means to live with love, courage, and quiet grace. She was never loud or demanding, but her presence was profound. She was, and always will be, a reminder that sometimes the best things in life come when we least expect them & will remain forever in the hearts of those lucky enough to know you.
Jules Watts
A.k.a Ju-ju
Nov. 15, 2010 – June 20, 2025
With hearts full of love and deep sorrow, the Watts family says goodbye to their beloved dog, Jules — a gentle spirit whose presence brightened their lives for nearly 15 wonderful years. Jules was a dog unlike any other. With one brown eye and one striking blue, her heterochromia made her gaze unforgettable. That vivid blue eye sparkled like a jewel — which inspired her name, spelled just a little differently, just like her. Jules was born in Missouri and later found her way to Oahu, where she shared countless adventures, quiet moments, and cherished memories with the Watts family.
From the very beginning, Jules showed she was full of personality and purpose. True to her instincts, she never missed a chance to try and herd dogs and kids. Whether she was chasing after her red Kong frisbee, or playing with her stuffed wiener dog from PetSmart, Jules impressed with her intelligence, and energy. But it was the little moments that defined her: the way she gently took treats from people’s hands, how she would roll over, or leapt into the air to catch her frisbee like a champion. Her sweet, goofy side was always on display, especially when she chased bubbles with pure joy on the porch back in Virginia. One moment the Watts family will never forget is when their youngest son, just a year old, received a big, loving kiss from Jules — followed by an unforgettable moment when her tongue somehow made its way into his mouth, causing peals of laughter and memories that still bring smiles today.
Jules was more than a pet. She was a protector, a playmate, a constant. She was family. Her
gentle soul, playful heart, and deep bond with each member of the Watts family will never be
forgotten. Jules has left her forever paw prints on the hearts of her family – Justin & Jamilah (Dad & Mom), Steve & Geo (brothers) & Zoey (dog sister).
Mika Shon
A.k.a Mimi
October 12, 2009 – April 30, 2025
Mika wasn’t just a dog — she was a quiet presence that filled a home with love, warmth, and peace. From the moment the Shon family saw her in a newspaper listing, something clicked. Just 8 weeks old when she joined her forever home, Mika quickly became a cherished part of the family.
Mika had a way of making her mark without ever needing the spotlight. She was calm, observant, and full of love — a steady contrast to her more animated brother, Cooper. Still, she could be cheeky in her own way. The Shons will never forget the day they came home to a mysterious mess on the carpet. When Geoff asked who was responsible, both Mika and Cooper wore guilty faces — but something in their expressions hinted that Mika might’ve been the stealthy culprit. It became one of those stories the family would retell with laughter and love.
Mika’s joy was found in the simple, sweet moments: long stroller rides with Jennifer, leisurely shopping adventures, and the feeling of the ocean water gently brushing her paws on beach days. She had a soft spot for fresh meat treats, always savoring them with the quiet delight that defined her.
She didn’t need fanfare or attention. Mika was content to be close to the ones she loved, offering her companionship in a thousand small, beautiful ways.. She was the kind of soul who made everything feel a little more peaceful just by being there. Her love was unwavering, and her presence in the Shon home will never be forgotten. Though she’s no longer with us in body, her memory walks beside us — in the stroller wheels turning down the sidewalk, and in the sound of waves crashing on beach days.
Mika you are so deeply missed by Jennifer (mom), Geoff (dad), sisters Amber & Emily, Bryson, Jill, Eryn, and Noah. Now you are reunited with Cooper (brother) and Kona (cousin).
Lilo Hime Yoneshige
A.k.a Lili, Chow Hound, Fluffy Princess
August 22, 2010 – March 16, 2025
From the moment she joined The Yoneshige family, she brought magic that only she could. Named by her mom after a beloved Disney character and given the middle name “Hime”—meaning princess in Japanese—she lived up to every bit of that royal title, with grace, a little sass, and so much love. Lilo came to her forever family through her aunty on her daddy’s side, when her original family couldn’t keep her due to allergies. Their loss became The Yoneshige family’s greatest blessing. She fit perfectly into their world, and into their hearts.
She was raised with love by Mommy, Daddy, and Grandpa—now all reunited.. And after they
passed, she continued to be the light in the lives of her sister (her second mom), second dad, her
baby brother Riker, her uncle, her grandma, and her furry cousins—Stitch, San-de Haupia, and
Nani. She was surrounded by love, always. Lilo had a personality all her own—funny, clever,
and full of charm. As a puppy, she once sneakily stole a bite of her mommy’s Zippy’s burger
when no one was looking. And who could forget the time she burrowed her little nose into an
empty Wetzel’s Pretzel bag, leaving only her fluffy tail sticking out like a flag of mischief!
She loved her chicken and meat more than anything else, and while her toy days quieted as she
got older, Lilo’s family will never forget her puppy years with that beloved stuffed duck and
tennis balls. And oh, the tricks! She could shake, high-five, and boop noses on command. But the
best of all was her meerkat pose—sitting up on her hind legs, alert and curious—or her princess
twirl dance that melted our hearts every time. Lilo had a gift. She knew when she was needed. As
a therapy dog, she gave calm and comfort to others, but her truest magic was in how she cared
for her own. Whether it was resting by your side after a hard day, or just offering those soft ears
to pet—those impossibly soft ears everyone loved to touch—Lilo was always there.
One of the most beautiful chapters of her story came in 2023, when she became a big sister to
baby Riker. From before he was born, she was protective, gentle, and always nearby. Watching
her nap beside him was a moment frozen in time—a reminder of the deep love she had for her family, right up to her final breath.
Lilo, our hearts ache without you. There’s a quietness where your paws used to be, and an
emptiness in the spaces you once filled so fully. Yet, we still find you everywhere—in the
memories that make us smile through our tears, in the softness of a pillow, in the way the light hits the tile you used to nap on.
Rest peacefully, Lilo Hime. You were so, so loved.
Rex was a force of nature wrapped in fur and love. From the moment he joined the Hayes family, his spirit was larger than life. Named after the mighty “T-Rex” for his bold, sometimes aggressive nature, it didn’t take long to learn that under all that energy was the most loving, loyal heart.
Rex belonged to a family who adored him—his brothers Jax and Steele, his Mom and Dad, Mitch and Natalie, and his big, beautiful extended ohana: Taliya and Paul, Keylee and Shaun, Ariya, Teiya, and Tylie. He was the glue in the chaos, the playmate in the quiet, the protector in the everyday. He was home. And oh, the personality this boy had. Rex had a favorite game: steal laundry from the basket, then give you that look—the one that dared you to come and chase him. He made the most ordinary moments feel fun, turning chores into laughter and turning the house into his personal playground. His favorites were simple and full of joy: bacon (of course), long walks, and anything that squeaked.
But what made Rex truly special was his heart. He was endlessly patient, especially with the
family’s grandchildren. He let them love on him, tug his tail, and climb all over him, never once
losing that calm, sweet expression. He knew he was their gentle giant, their soft pillow, their silent protector.
Rex, you were a perfect mix of fire and love. Rest in love.
Liliko’i Dowson
A.k.a Lili or Silly Lili
April 24, 2008 – April 8, 2025
Lilikoi was love wrapped in fur, a little bit of sass, a lot of heart, and a whole world of
personality. She came into Gail and Gaylord’s life in April 2017, a time when hearts were still
aching from the loss of dear Beau. Drawn to the Hawaiian Humane Society, they weren’t
expecting to find her—but love works in mysterious ways. At nine years old, Lilikoi was already
a wise soul, full of charm and quiet elegance. Alongside Kokoʻolua, their sweet six-year-old, she
completed their family and brought warmth back into their home. Her name, “Lilikoi,” was
chosen by Gail because her beautiful fur reminded her of the passionfruit she’d loved since childhood—a perfect match for a cat so full of sweetness and spark.
Lilikoi had rules. And she made sure everyone followed them. She was picky with her cardboard
boxes—Costco boxes were preferred, but only if the shape and size met her standards. She loved
jumping in and out of them, especially when it turned into a playful chase with Gail. Her joy was simple and pure: Churu treats, filets, & catnip toys.
She had a voice, and she used it. Lilikoi was very talkative. If Gail was busy, Lilikoi would
meow and follow her around the house, gently insisting: “Come lay down. Come sit with me.”
Her favorite spot in the whole world was nestled between Gail’s legs on a soft blanket. Liliko’i
had a sense of drama, too—in the most endearing way. If her bowl was full but not fresh, she’d
just sit and wait until Gail came to “pour” new food on top. Only then would she eat.
In her younger years, Lilikoi was a powerhouse—leaping from the floor to the dining table, to
the cat tree, and then all the way to the top of a high bookshelf like it was nothing. Agile, elegant, and always a little bit majestic.
Lilikoi was deeply loved by Gail and Gaylord, her furry companions Kolohe Niele and
Kokoʻolua, and her caring neighbors, Aunty Midori and Aunty Anne. She left paw prints on many hearts, and memories that will never fade.
Rest peacefully, sweet Lilikoi—fragrant with love, full of sweetness, and forever part of the Dowson family.
Brody Sorino
Aug. 5, 2010 – Jan. 31, 2025
The Soriano family needed a companion to share their love with. They were throwing names out there when they first got Brody. He responded to the name & the name stuck.
Brody was a silly and loving boy. Sherwin went out to run errands one day and came home to him with a glue trap stuck to his butt. It’s safe to assume that Brody was curious to see what this contraption was, but ended up sitting on it instead. He wasn’t picky and would eat anything. But Sherwin made sure he was only given things that were good for him. Brody loved his walks, going to the beach, frisbees, tennis balls and sticks.
Sherwin wasn’t sure if Brody knew he was a dog. He would snore louder than anyone in the house. But the Soriano family loved every moment they had with him. Rest in peace & paradise Brody Boy. We hope your journey over the Rainbow Bridge was beautiful & peaceful. May you be young again & forever playing with frisbees & tennis balls.
Forever loved by his family, Sherwin, Tessa, Jayden, Henry, Aurenda & Paul.
Onyx Alcaraz
May 7, 2012 – Jan. 25, 2025
Onyx was incredibly smart, loyal and loving. The Alcaraz family had Harley & Popeye. They had puppies and along came Onyx. He loved to “talk” to his family when he wanted attention or was hungry. Onyx never failed to greet them at the gate & wait by the sliding door. Talk about a warm welcome home! Onyx loved his snacks & knew how to sit, shake, lay down, and wait.
Onyx has left a permanent impression with his unconditional love. His family: Bruce, Michelle, Chelsea, Reece & Brandon miss him dearly. Rest in love, Onyx.
2024
Bess Young
June 1,2008 – December 31, 2024
Bess’ life started out quite rough. She was abandoned and found at a rubbish dump in Hong Kong by her mum, Karen. From then on, Bess and her fur brother Barney lived wonderful lives. They moved in 2018 from Hong Kong to San Francisco,to Hawaii and settled in nicely. In her younger days, she enjoyed being a sock and shoe thief. Bess was a smart pup, and knew that once caught, someone would chase her and be offered a beef treat inexchange for the article of clothing. It was all a part of her plan! Besides a fun game of chase, she knew how to high-five, shake, wave with her front paws for “Ching/ching” (Chinese expression for “thank you”) and bang, rolling over and playing dead. Bess enjoyed being outdoors with her family; long daily walks, hiking and swimming in the ocean or pool. Weekly car rides were eagerly looked forward to as well. Shotgun!
On another note, Bess took her role as her family’s pack leader very seriously. They were her top priority! Being loud and an efficient security system, she would spend most of her days guarding the house and notifying her family loudly that a visitor was approaching the home.
Bess is now reunited with Barney. But her affection, love and loyalty is missed dearly by her family; Karen (mum), Maureen (aunty), Richard (uncle), & Deryck (human bro).
Dusti Crowell
October 2009 – October 15, 2024
I came up with her name because of her beautiful silvery champagne color. She is the color of dust. I chose to spell her name with an ‘i’ to feminize the name.
She joined our family in December 2013. I had recently lost my red nosed pit bull, Cinnamon, a few months prior. After months of searching for another dog, and even going to meet a few other dogs, I stumbled across a Craigslist Post. A couple in Kailua had posted a photo of her and were looking for a home for her. When I saw the photo, it immediately reminded me of Cinnamon because they had almost the same face. I went to their home to meet her a few days later, and as soon as they opened their door and I laid eyes on her, I knew she was the one for me. I fell in love with her immediately and we had an instant bond. We went on to spend the next 11 years together.
Dusti was incredibly smart and sensitive, and we were connected on such a deep level. We walked twice a day (morning and evening) for 11 years, and I took her almost everywhere with me.
I have so many wonderful memories of her. One of my favorite memories is when we would go up to the top of Makakilo for our walks, especially during the chilly months.
She has left an unfillable void in my heart, and in my life. I miss her tremendously and my love for her will last forever.
Dusti will be forever missed by Moani (Dusti’s mom), Rob (Her Daddy), Nesta (Her Brother), Mina (Her sister) and her Gamma and Nana.
Miu Pazienza
5/29/2010 ~ 8/27/2024
Miu developed separation issues when we moved into our new home just shy of her turning 4. Due to our work/lifestyle, training her wasn’t feasible and because of this, we took her everywhere with us (we are fortunate to own our own business). Looking back now, this was a blessing as she was included in practically every facet of our lives and got to be around people but more simply – just do life together.
Miu enjoyed going to our friends house, the beach to run on the sand and boogey board, to work (loved the girls in the office), shopping (never made a peep), to the nail salon, the hair salon, car rides with her head in the wind, riding in the basket of our bicycle, playing in her kiddie pool in the yard, going outside for walks… she was a busy pup on the go.
Miu also LOVED food and quickly became a master at begging. Along with meaty treats, she loved vegetables (except for celery). Her go-to treats were carrots and frozen peas in a treat puzzle which she would go crazy for. Because of her love for food, she was easy to train.
Miu outgrew many of her toys and was perfectly fine towards other dogs but wasn’t especially playful with any of them. We honestly believed she thought she was human.
Next to food, Miu LOVED people. Everyone. In our office elevator, she would stare people down in hopes they would look down at her which she took as an invitation. As soon as they did, she would excitedly start wiggling her butt, would brush up against them, go between their legs or start giving them kisses. Everyone loved it. When they asked her age, they were shocked with disbelief. Miu retained her youthful appearance and energy even at her ripe age of 14.
In the end, her tiny body couldn’t endure the 4 seizures she suffered within a 48hr period. We were fortunate to have a couple of days at home with her until we said our goodbyes on 8/27.
Miu was the best pup we could’ve asked for. She filled our lives and home with so much love, joy, and laughter. We were so blessed to be her parents and she will forever be in our hearts.
RIL to the love of our lives, sweet Miu
Bella Kim Lum
June 1, 2010 – July 26, 2024
Bella you will always be our sweetest girl ever! You gave us unconditional love through your presence, which gave us so much joy! We had you for nearly six years ago, as you came from a neglected and abusive background. Yet, you blossomed in time and gave us priceless memories to last a lifetime. We will miss hugging you and tucking you into bed, caring for your every need, as you got older, and receiving your wet sweet kisses on our faces. You showed us the simplicity and joy of life in every day living. Being excited for car rides and Mac Donald’s cheeseburgers. Playing with the water hose during your baths, jumping on the couch to be with us, looking up at the birds and trying to catch them, munching on your favorite snacks: carrots and watermelon. You taught us to love with no strings attached and live life fully. You are indeed a gift from God. We look forward to the day when we can be reunited as a family in heaven with Jesus! Thank you Bella for rescuing us instead and giving us the gift of your presence.
Choco Bigger
Choco was named by his mom, Aya, because he reminded her of Chocolate. Aya and Ty experienced love at first sight when they saw him in the pet store. Choco liked to keep Dave on his toes. He would run for hours in the rainforest behind their house. Dave would hike for hours looking for Choco, only to find him waiting at the backdoor. Stealthy like a ninja!
Choco loved his chicken snack and keeping active with walks twice a day and hunting in the backyard. He was excited for his family to come home every day, waiting at the top of the stairs, with his favorite toy to share. What he didn’t like to share was the bed at night. Choco was a bed hog!
Choco is dearly missed by his dad (Dave), mom (Aya), brother (Ty) and all his Manoa friends.
Duke Silverman
Duke’s story started in Naples, Italy while Leah was stationed there in 2009. Duke had the cutest face. He always had one ear flopped over and the other would stick straight up. He enjoyed car rides, playing with little dogs and the great outdoors. And of course BACON!! Leah will forever remember all the wonderful memories but most of all, the cuddle sessions spent on the floor in front of the TV.
Duke, you are loved dearly and missed tremendously by mom (Leah), dad (Hoge), grandma (Cheryl), and sister (Blumpy).
Murphy Arakaki
May 29, 2011 – June 13, 2024
Murphy loved the water early on, and thus his name that means “sea warrior”. He was a gentle yet courageous fighter, no doubt. After his family tragically lost their other pack of fur babies, a miniature poodle and a bichon frise to tragic illnesses, they were contacted about adopting 4 month old Murphy, a beautiful and enchanting apricot standard poodle puppy that captured the at first hesitant and still grieving hearts of what would become his fur-ever home.
As a puppy, Murphy flew solo for almost a year, before his fur brother Saxton joined the pack. Murphy was quite a character especially for food where once caught with the last manapua in his mouth from an entire box counter surfing. As a puppy there was also a time Murphy disappeared under a pallet at Petco for his own food sampling- What a rascal and food driven boy! Murph even managed to chew through his first leather leash lest beknown to his fur mom as he awaited a casual conversation she was engaged in.
Murphy was a naturally brilliant blue ribbon obedience dog who’s talents included catching treats thrown his way, and even flipping kibble sized morsels from the top of his nose catching it in his mouth! Although no more leashes, Murphy turned to his toys chewing up balls and frisbees he loved to catch. In fact even his long-time stuff animal companion was a big chewed-up Winnie the Pooh bear who rendered an arm in play. His last love was a much smaller stuffed hedgehog that he and his fur brother Saxton often competed over for ownership.
Sadly Murphy ended up battling the very aggressive cancer, hemangiosarcoma. True to his warrior name, Murphy fought courageously to stay and bring as much joy he could to his pack and those he would meet. He was the sweetest teddy bear in a big dog body that absolutely loved affection and was always so calming. His pack/ family loved Murphy more with all their heart and would have gone to the end of the universe to do whatever possible to have given him as much comfort and more time to remain with them. Murphy was loved immensely by Debbie (Mom), Richard (Dad), Nealson (2 legged brother), Saxton (fur-bro) and the neighbors of the Niu Valley community.
Rest in peace and be filled with all the same happiness that you never failed to make others feel until we meet again Murph!
Milo Manago
March 2011 – June 6, 2024
Milo came into our lives four months after my 18 year old son passed away and she was a true blessing to our family. She did not replace my son, but definitely brought us so much joy. One of my favorite memories of Milo was her happy walk, especially when she saw her favorite Uncle Stirling. He was always there to share treats with her. Towards the end of her life, I will always remember how she would like to snuggle and be right by our side. I miss her so much.
Ro Moore
Many believe in the quote “What’s meant for you, will find you”. That is exactly the case for the Moore family. Carol and David were at the Hawaii Humane Society one day looking to adopt a pet. Initially when Carol first met Ro, who previously named Onyx, he was already in the process of being adopted by another family. Carol always wanted a dog that looked like Ro and had mentioned that to the family that was adopting Ro. Carol gave them her number in hopes that they’d call her if they changed their mind. It was truly love at first sight. Ro came up to Carol immediately and started licking her. The original family that was adopting Ro decided that they wanted the Moore family to have him. They were overjoyed and started adoption paperwork immediately.
Ro is short for Romeo. And just like the character, Ro was a lover boy from the moment he was a part of the Moore family. Ro was a gentle and kind boy despite his big stature. The only information that the Moore family knew about Ro’s background was that he was found homeless in Ewa. He came with a lot of scars that did not heal and that made the Moore family think he led a hard life. Initially Ro loved Pizza and french fries. But later changed his food pallet to Steak and Bacon! Yum! Ro loved walks in the neighborhood as he was always the king. So regal that anyone that knew Ro would say hi. If he saw a smaller dog, he would look at them but dismiss them as if to say “Honey, I’m bigger & stronger than you so bark away. If my owner would let me, I would have you for dinner.”
Besides his love for steak & bacon, Ro also loved dog toys. You would not believe how excited Ro got when Carol & David came home from shopping at Ross or Marshalls. They’d enter the door and Ro automatically went right to the bag and pulled out his new toys. It was truly like seeing a kid who got presents all the time. The Moore family enjoyed seeing him pull out the toys himself .
Ro was the love of the Moore family’s life. Although he didn’t know any funny tricks, his best trait of all was his big compassionate eyes that always told his family what he wanted or how he was feeling. Ro may have had a rough upbringing but that never stopped him from being the most loving and kind dog. Ro was truly & deeply loved by his mom (Carol), his dad (David), his brother (@rileyaloha.com), and all the neighbors who took care of him while mom & dad traveled (Jimmy & Pat). Although he may not be here with us physically, he is always with us in our hearts.
Tobias Stollenmaier
A.K.A Toby
June 10, 2010 – April 4, 2024
Nadine & Jim’s son, Josh, was leaving the nest for college in September 2010. Josh really wanted to get a puppy so that the dog would know him every time he visited home. As all parents know, Nadine and Jim would end up taking on the role of parents to this new puppy. Josh left in 2010, graduating from Seattle Univeristy in 2014 and never returned home. Josh had learned that Tobias meant “Good is Good”and decided that it would be the perfect fit for their new addition to the family.
Toby loved cheese, apples and delicious lamb treats. The Stollenmaier’s home is right off the Kailua beach, so Nadine took Toby to the beach daily. Toby also loved to go “bye-bye” in the car. His favorite toy was a hand monkey puppet. Toby’s special trick was a triple circle. His command would be “1-2-3- Good boy”, and would twirl in a circle three times to get his yummy treats! As Toby became deaf, he’d get startled and surprised as Nadine would come up behind him as he was looking for her, tapping Toby on the butt, she’d say “Boo!”. It became a fun little game between Toby & Nadine.
Etched in Nadine’s heart forever was their daily beach walks. When Toby was a puppy, they’d go for runs. Slowly over the years runs slowed to jogs.walks and as a senior, the pair would go on short, slow walks. On the day Toby went to Heaven, he sat in his wagon and was very excited to be at his favorite place, the beach, then back to their beautiful yard where he played all his life.
Tobias was loved whole-heartedly by Nadine (Mom), Jim, (Dad), Josh (brother), and Anita (Grandma). There will forever be a place in their hearts where Toby will be. Until we meet again!
Apollo Yamamoto
A.K.A Houdini, Muddy Buddy, Good boy, Smart boy, Big boy.
2006 – 2024
The Yamamoto family’s friend had a litter of puppies & they were searching for a good outside guard dog. At 8 weeks old, he officially became “Apollo” after Apollo Creed the Boxer. Apollo took the name Logan, his human big brother, gave him seriously. Logan was Apollo’s trainer and they went through puppy school and dog school since Apollo was so full of energy!
Mica, Apollo’s older sister, was smaller than he was but he knew she was the boss! They would play tug – of – war together, but as Apollo grew in size, it became a game of drag Mica and the toy around. The Yamamoto’s taught Apollo many tricks. One was “Find Mica”, and he would catch up to Mica on walks, only to invade her personal space, sniffing her butt (Mica disliked this very much). When Mica didn’t want to play with Apollo, she would hide under chairs and benches, knowing that he wouldn’t be able to get to her. Apollo would crouch and bark to ask her to play with him, but Mica just ignored him.
Apollo was the “neighborhood” bully. People would cross the street just to avoid him. But he was just trying to protect his family. He was the master of tricks. He knew “Leave it” meant don’t eat trash on walks, but “Brushy Brushy” and “Scrubby Scrubby” were his least favorite commands…. who needed a brushing or to take a bath anyways!!! If Apollo misbehaved, he understood that “That’s not nice!” was when he was in big trouble…Apollo’s way of staying cool was to make craters in the yard. One crater was so deep, you could only see his head!
Any time the word “good” was mentioned, Apollo expected a treat. He knew “good” meant treats. He was good at guessing which hand the treats were in and was completely food driven. Apollo loved apples, chicken & duck jerky.
Apollo will always have a special place in the hearts of the Yamamoto family; Lee (dad), Lisa (Mom), Logan (brother) and Lace (sister), and Mica (doggy sister).
Kamalani Johnston – Shin
2007 – 2024
Elke & Robert had gone to the Hawaii Humane Society one day and Kamalani stood up to get Elke’s attention, as she scratched quietly on the kennel. Kamalani was truly a heavenly child to Elke & Robert. They based her name off the song “Kamalani”. She wasn’t a fan of the water initially. But one day, Elke, Robert & Kamalani were at the beach and she just jumped into the ocean! Kamalani had a special bond with Robert. They loved to go to the beach & fishing together, especially air conditioned car rides (those were her favorite!). Robert & Kamalani were like two peas in a pod, they did everything together, and as Robert would say, they just “clicked”. Along with the wonderful car rides and spending time near the water, Kamalani liked chicken and rice. She was an active girl and enjoyed running and playing fetch. Kamalani was loved dearly by Elke, Robert, Wendy Simmons & Dr Asato. Until we meet again Kamalani Johnson-Shin.
Ume Dimaya
March 27, 2008 – January 11, 2024 Ume, like the dried Japanese fruit, was sweet and tart. She lived up to her name given by Melissa’s friend. More times than none, we stumble upon a treasure when were not even looking. When Melissa was casually looking in a pet store, she came across Ume and she knew that she could not leave her there. Mischievous puppy Ume had eaten a family member’s false tooth that had fallen on the ground. Nobody knew where it went! There were many smelly poop searches to retrieve the tooth and was forever deemed it as the “poop tooth”. Ume loved her Tsum Tsum and small rope toys to play fetch with. Like any other dog, Ume yearned for someone to drop food from the dinner table. Especially when it came to french fries and apples. Ume would flaunt her best dance moves and twirl forever when she saw treats! Melissa always had a shadow. Ume would take the role as guardian of Melissa very seriously, even when she was outside or in the shower. Her job was put to the test one day when the front door was left open. Ume’s sister went for a walk while Ume stayed put at the front door. She knew she had to guard the house. Ume’s absence doesn’t go unnoticed, as her family misses her dealy.
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