It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dana Michael Alika Opupele, who peacefully left this world on May 22, 2026, at the age of 77.
Dana was born on February 7, 1949, in Wailuku, Hawaii, to Annie and Joseph Opupele IV. He attended Kahului School and graduated from Farrington High School in 1967.
Dana proudly served in the United States Army beginning in 1969. He completed combat training at Fort Dix with Company E, 5th Battalion, graduating on February 19, 1971. He was later deployed to South Korea in 1972.
In 1973, Dana completed and obtained his Electrical Apprenticeship License. He went on to work as an electrical contractor for more than 50 years and was the founder of Delta Electric.
In 1967, Dana married Jasmine M. Ishimine (d. 1982), and together they had three children: Norine(Hanale) Toriki, Janine (Addison) Opupele-Zukeran, and Danalle (Danson) Keli'i. Dana is also survived by his wife, Veronica, and his son, Daniel Opupele, as well as his three stepchildren, Jason Salvador, Jaymie and Melanie Cabatu.
He is survived by his brother, Charles Kahakauwila; sisters Iris (Harold) Makilan, Carol (Donald) Souza, and Iwalani (Peter) Opupele-Pszyk; and was preceded in death by his sister Tammy Opupele-Hammon. He is also survived by his half-siblings John, Jerry, and Jane Kusunoki, with special acknowledgment to the entire Kahakauwila family.
Dana leaves behind 12 grandchildren, 19 stepgrandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren.
Dana touched countless lives through his warm smile, generous spirit, and unwavering support for those in need. A proud Kanaka Maoli, he was a devoted son, brother, nephew, husband, father, grandfather, and friend who gave back to his community and honorably served his country.
He was known as an exceptional laulau maker and a master scuba diver who completed more than 20,000 dives throughout his lifetime. Dana took great pride in every aspect of his life and will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
