A Life Well-Lived

By Patty Kamahele, Administrative Assistant

I would like to dedicate today’s devotion to my husband Francis, who passed into eternity to be with his Lord on Wednesday, October 14, 2020, following an illness. I pray it gives you a glimpse into the life of an amazing man who gave his all for the Lord. He was a loving husband, dad, Papa, and friend as well as a pastor, vocalist, and evangelist who loved bringing others to Jesus.

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In his passing our beloved Francis Keahola Kamahele leaves behind his wife, Patty; son Adam; son Matthew and wife Zellie; grandchildren Tahtiana, La’akea, and Kanile’a; brothers Kenneth and Solomon; cousins, nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and many dear friends.

Born and raised in Honolulu, Francis resided most of his years in Honolulu, on Maui, and in San Diego. He was a proud graduate of Saint Louis School, one of the men of Kalaepohaku, and was active as an alumnus from the class of ‘71.

Blessed with an amazing voice, Francis was called “one of the finest singers ever to come out of Hawaii.” He was part of the cast of Hawaii Calls, had his own show in Waikiki, and then became the headliner and emcee of Tihati’s Drums of the Pacific on Maui. He also was an actor with several roles on the Hawaii Five-O television series with Jack Lord.

Francis’ life changed direction when he became a Christian and then was called into the ministry in 1987. He faithfully served as an intern pastor in San Diego with Mike MacIntosh and up until his passing, was the pastor of Horizon Christian Fellowship Honolulu. In those years, he also traveled the world preaching and singing from small venues to Promise Keepers events at stadiums with 80,000 in attendance. It didn’t matter the size of the crowd, he shared and sang with all of his heart and soul.

He also started a ministry called “Jesus Loves You”* by complete faith (as we didn’t have anything when we started) where literally thousands of people across our island were touched with the Lord’s love through the distribution of clothing, food boxes, school supplies, hygiene kits, and supplies along with a special Keiki carnival for the little ones and a dinner concert ... all free of charge. Jesus said, “Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:8b) And many, many people came to know the Lord through this special ministry. Francis has had an impact on so many people as he loved and cared for the physical and spiritual needs of others.

Francis’ greatest loves in life were his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, his wife, his grandchildren, and his entire family. He enjoyed his time as a paddler for Napili Canoe Club (having paddled the Molokai Hoe three times) and was an avid golfer. One of his favorite sayings was, “Hey, I’ve got a new swing!” We greatly enjoyed golfing together weekly as it was a time when we could appreciate one another’s company, as well as the beauty of God’s creation. Our bucket list was fulfilled when we golfed at Pebble Beach a few years ago with friends.

Francis was greatly loved and will be greatly missed. But I am confident he heard these words as he took his last breath on earth...and his first breath in heaven: “Well done good and faithful servant...enter into the joy of the Lord.” (Matthew 25:23)

A hui hou, my sweet love ... until we meet again.

Prayer: Lord, I have no words to express how grateful I am for my husband. His passing has left a huge void in my life, but I know You are here to fill it. May we take the time to appreciate those we love and to be thankful to You for them. I am heartbroken but I know I will enjoy his presence again one day, as we stand in Your presence together. In the comforting Name of Jesus, the One we serve. Amen.

Please take a few moments to view this video of a glimpse into the ministry of Jesus Loves You.