Robert Estes

Robbie was born on March 6, 1945 in Moscow, Idaho to his parents, Murray and Hazel Estes. In the 5th grade they moved west to Honolulu where he attended Punahou School and later the University of Michigan. An avid surfer where he developed many lifelong friendships, he thrived in living life to the fullest.

After college, his desire for adventure took him all over the world. He sailed the South Pacific for several years, even getting lost at sea, and later drove his beat-up VW van from southeast Asia to Europe.

When it was time to settle down, he returned to Honolulu and got involved in real estate and later the construction industry, two enduring interests over his lifetime. After meeting his future wife, Christine Estes, at the end of a Transpacific sailing race, they got married in 1973. They eventually moved to Maui and his 3 sons were born and raised in their Kula home, which he proudly built.

In the mid-1980’s he founded RME Construction Supply in Kahului. The name was a twist on his initials and “responsible managing employer”. He took great pride in his thriving business and the great people he was so fortunate to work with. Over the years, he quietly supported many people and organizations including senior softball teams, our soccer and baseball teams and he served several terms on the Maui Planning Commission to make sure Maui grew responsibly.

The family moved to Oahu in 1991, yet he still remained a big part of the Maui community and was probably their most dedicated Aloha Airlines frequent flier. Prior to our Mom’s passing in 2008, he sold his business to focus on other endeavors and his family. Later in life, he reconnected with his high school classmate, Rae Gorman, who provided him with compassion, companionship and lots and lots of smiles. They shared similar passions for singing in the Punahou Glee Club, playing the ukulele with his crew of childhood friends and travelling.

As time went on, he battled cancer, a stroke and Parkinson’s. Always the fighter and head-strong individual, he battled till the end and departed peacefully on his own terms. His generosity, wisdom and caring nature will be greatly missed. He is survived by his 3 sons, Luke, Will and Andrew, his 2 daughters-in-law and 7 grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date in 2026.

With much sadness, we say Aloha to our Dad.