A number of the University of Hawaiʻi’s most respected educators, researchers, graduates and supporters passed in 2025. Here are their In Memoriam stories, in chronological order. Each one of them had a profound impact on the university, Hawaiʻi and the world.
Trailblazing business leader, UH alum Richard Parsons
Parsons became one of America’s most prominent Black corporate executives, and led both Time Warner and Citigroup during critical periods. He returned to UH Mānoa as a commencement speaker and served as the Dan and Maggie Inouye Distinguished Chair in Democratic Ideals and was awarded a UH Distinguished Alumni Award in 1997 and a UH Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters in 2003.
Community health advocate, UHPA board member John Casken
Casken, chair and associate specialist of nursing and former director of international health at the School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene, will be remembered for his commitment to improving community health by influencing health policy and addressing health and social disparities in the state, particularly for rural communities across the islands and for Native Hawaiians.
Jeffrey Fiala, UH alumnus, firefighter and hero
Fiala, who tragically lost his life on January 6, 2025, during a search and rescue operation at a two-story apartment fire, is remembered for his bravery and dedication to service, and was a beloved husband, son, brother, friend and colleague with a passion for fishing, photography and nature.
Don Robbs, the ‘Voice of Rainbow Baseball’
Robbs called more than 2,000 games during his legendary career and will be remembered for bringing to life some of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa baseball program’s greatest moments, including the 1980 College World Series and all 13 of UH‘s NCAA Tournament runs.
Bobby Curran, iconic radio voice of UH Athletics
Curran called more than 400 football broadcasts, multiple bowl games, NCAA Tournament appearances, and UH baseball, volleyball, and women’s basketball games. He hosted the “Bobby Curran Show” on KKEA and was named Hawaiʻi Sportscaster of the Year six times.
Garrett Estrin, former UH Hilo men’s soccer coach
Estrin was named the program’s eighth head coach in May 2022 and helped the Vulcans soccer programs begin a new era by leading the men’s team to a season-opening 2-1 victory over Cal Poly Humboldt on the brand-new turf Vulcan Soccer Field.
Donna M. Howard, former UH Foundation president
Howard believed philanthropy was about trust and relationships. She listened to donors, understood their motivations and connected them with meaningful opportunities. She also energized alumni and business partnerships, while championing transparency and accountability.
Eloise Luzader, cherished Gateway Café head cashier
Luzader retired from Gateway House café after nearly 30 years at age 95, and stated that the students her favorite part of her job. She viewed them as her grandbabies, effortlessly remembering the names of thousands of them and making them feel her care and aloha.
John Morton, visionary leader of UH Community Colleges
Morton, whose innovative and strategic leadership and nearly five decades of service transformed the UH Community Colleges, championed educational access and equity, especially for underrepresented communities. He played a key role in supporting the Hawaiʻi Promise scholarship program and the HINET workforce and education support initiative.
Kevin Kelly, innovative community advocate
For more than three decades, Kelly contributed his vision, leadership and good humor to marine technology, maritime security and research administration at UH. His work included business development, the management of large scientific grants, and liaising with legislative bodies and government agencies.
Daisōshō Genshitsu Tea Master Sen, 5th generation tea icon’s lasting UH legacy
Sen shared bowls of tea with presidents, royalty, and everyday people, always as an offering of peace. His connection to UH Mānoa stretched across more than seven decades, shaping a legacy of culture and learning.
CC Chancellor Douglas Dykstra
Known for his warmth, humor and deep compassion, Dykstra led Windward CC from 2009 until his retirement in 2018, shaping the campus into a vibrant college serving the Windward region and beyond. Colleagues often described him as a “gentleman giant,” one who could be both a soft-hearted listener and a strong, decisive leader when needed.
