Anela Kahiamoe

August 2, 1958 - June 18, 2025

In loving memory ~

Anela Kahiamoe, a beloved island-born Musician who called Hawaii his birthplace and the Comox Valley his cherished home, passed away unexpectedly after a performance on the evening of June 18, 2025, in Courtenay, BC, at the age of 67. His departure came as a profound shock to his family, friends, and the community.

Born in Honolulu on August 2, 1958, Anela spent his early years mastering the guitar, lap steel, ukulele, bass, and vocals. Entirely self-taught, Anela began his professional musical career at just 17, and with the help of his mentor, Pete Seymour, quickly became a sought-after performer across Hawaii and internationally. His credits include touring with Hawaii's Island Band, where their song "El Dorado" reached No. 1 in Hawaii in 1978. For over two decades, he brought joy to audiences aboard sunset dinner cruises and in concert halls worldwide.

Anela relocated to Canada in 2010, where he joined his wife Cheri and established a new home for himself. His family quickly grew to include Cheri's children; Jeeneet, Cortney, Shelby, Jennifer, Jason, Chris and Yuri. Anela found special joy in spending time with his Mo'opuna (grandchildren). "Tutuman" was never too busy to enjoy a walk to the park or teach a song on the ukulele.

Anela deepened his roots in the Comox Valley, becoming an integral figure in the local music scene. He headlined concerts and collaborated with many local artists. Crowd after crowd admired his easy-going presence, masterful performances, and heartfelt "talk story" style that transcended musical genres — infusing blues, jazz, gospel, country, reggae, and his signature Hawaiian flair.

Anela loved to mentor and especially enjoyed his time working together with Luke Blu Guthrie. A skilled teacher, he taught both young children and adults. Anela was proud to say that as a musician, he was blessed to never have "worked" a day in his life.

He will be remembered not only for the breadth of his talent — sharing stages with internationally renowned artists such as Nightwing, Tino and the Rhythm Klub, Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac and Kool & the Gang — but more so for his generous heart, unwavering professionalism, and genuine ALOHA spirit.

Anela is survived by his wife, Cheri Kahiamoe, seven children, five grandchildren, three siblings (Sueno, Kanoe Lani and William "Luka") and many loving relatives in Honolulu and the Big Island (Hawi), who will miss him dearly. Anela was predeceased by his parents, William & Elaine and sisters Lori & Kahalama.

In the true spirit of his Hawaiian heritage, he would often sign off with "Mahalo, a hui hou" - "Thank you, until we meet again."

A public Celebration of Anela's Life and music will be held on August 24th at 3:00 at the Comox Rotary Stage in Filberg Park, Comox BC.

May his music continue to resonate ,and may his family, friends, and fans find peace in the legacy he leaves — a rich melody woven through the heart of every performance.