Taps: Walter Kunio Shigekane

Posted on Jan 10, 2022 in Taps

Walter Kunio Shigekane was born on September 21, 1931 to Saburo and Kiyono Shigekane. He passed away peacefully on December 15, 2021 at the age of 90.

Walter served proudly in the United States Air Force and the Hawaii Air National Guard. His mechanical prowess gained him selection into an elite corps of professionals recruited by Boeing Industries, to construct the B-707 version of Air Force One!

Walter is best remembered for his glowing smile, overflowing generosity, and kind heart. He enjoyed traveling across the US, Australia, Japan, and Europe, winning jackpots in Las Vegas, watching his favorite 49ers, and raising beautiful orchids.

He is pre-deceased by his brothers, Albert, and Edward, and his sisters, Beatrice, Nancy, and Justine.

He is survived by his wife, Gwendolyn of 61 years, his brother David Kane, his two children, Vicki Shigekane White and James Shigekane, and three grandchildren, Stephanie Mizuno, Emi Shigekane and Kyan Shigekane.

Walter was our “Superman!” Through his many injuries, surgeries, and battles with cancer, he managed to recover with remarkable resilience and strength…amazing even the doctors! Nothing could keep him from seeing the world, serving his country, state, community, or spending time with his loved ones. Walter will be missed, but his legacy of kindness, love and service lives in all of us!

Memorial services will be held at Hosoi Garden Mortuary on Sunday, January 16, 2022. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am. Services will begin at 10:00 am.

Retiree News extends heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends.


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