Irene "Dede" Gonsalves Wilhelm Lihue, Hawaii Obituary

Irene "Dede" Gonsalves Wilhelm

<p>Irene G. “Dede” Wilhelm </p><p>Irene G. Wilhelm, affectionately known as Dede, 88, of Lihue, Kauai, was born on Jan. 19, 1934 in Kohala, Hawaii. </p><p>Dede was a well-known cocktail waitress at the former Kauai Surf Hotel up until the day the hotel closed its doors.&nbsp; Her charm and excellent service could never be duplicated. Locals and tourists alike would return time and time again whether for a vacation or to relax and have a cocktail at the Planter’s Bar or Golden Cape just to see her. On Nov. 18, 2022 Dede gave her “LAST CALL”. She was surrounded and embraced by her loved ones when the Almighty came and gently took her to eternal paradise. </p><p>Throughout her life she remained passionate about traveling the world, reading murder mysteries and writing and journaling. Another great passion of hers was criminal work. For 6 years, which was the term limit, she was the head of the Kauai Board of Police Commissioners. She was also a member and served on the National Board of Police Commissions. It was all very time consuming and she enjoyed every single minute. </p><p>Dede was preceded in death by parents John Gonsalves and Clarinda Pinho Gonsalves. Her brother Arthur Gonsalves, sister-in-law Winnie Crawford Gonsalves and her sons Jerry (Norma) Yahiku Jr. and Scott (Andrea) Yahiku. </p><p>Dede is survived by her husband Earl “Jack” Wilhelm, daughter Kristine (Darrell) Borrero and son Robin (Cathy) Yahiku and her most precious grandchildren and great grandchildren. </p><p>Our family would like to give a very, very special thank you to Bernie Kaeo for her unbelievable love and support. Also, a big mahalo to Kauai Hospice for all of their time and wonderful care. </p><p>Private services were held. </p><p>&nbsp; </p>
January 19, 1934 - November 18, 202201/19/193411/18/2022
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Irene "Dede" Gonsalves Wilhelm
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Valerie Texeira-Sekimoto
January 15, 2023
I have fond memories of Dede , she trained me at the Kauai Surf hotel I was the youngest cocktail server. I will remember her for her wisdom, Beauty,and Beautiful Heart,and much more. Rest in Love my Friend…
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Joan Raymond
December 10, 2022
Dede was such a beautiful person. I will miss
her. My deepest sympathy to Bro Jack and family.
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Mr& Mrs. Clarence Souza
November 30, 2022
Jack my friend. I would like to send you our deepest sympathy my friend and I will be seeing you around when you're on your rides one day and I'll see you. We send you our best and prayers for you and your family. Luv my friend.
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The staff at Kauai Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home
November 23, 2022
We plant this tree as a living memorial to Irene 'Dede' Gonsalves Wilhelm. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
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