Emma Maka'Olono Sarono's Obituary
Emma Maka‘olono Sarono, born on October 18, 1937, in Honolulu, Hawai‘i, entered eternal rest on December 18, 2024, in Tacoma, Washington. She was the cherished daughter of Emma Grant Kapela Willis and Jack Napahuelua Peka Kui‘ee Baker and grew up in Aiea, Hawai‘i.
Emma’s life was a testament to love—love for her family, her faith, and her Hawaiian heritage. As a proud matriarch and cultural advocate, she devoted herself to preserving the traditions and values of her homeland. After relocating to Washington state more than fifty years ago, Emma became a cornerstone of the Hawaiian community there. Her dedication shone brightly through her involvement in numerous organizations that celebrated Hawaiian culture and unity. Among them were the Hawai‘i 50th State Club, Peninsula Hawai‘i Club of Port Orchard, Pearl Harbor Hawaiian Civic Club, Lokahi ‘Ohana ‘O Hawai‘i, Moku‘aina A Wakinekona Hawaiian Civic Club, and the Asian Pacific Association New Year’s Program.
In addition to her dedication to family and community, Emma was also a skilled semi-professional bowler. Her passion for bowling led her to compete in numerous leagues across the United States. She traveled extensively to participate in various tournaments, where her competitive spirit and talent shone brightly. Bowling was not just a sport for Emma; it was another way she connected with others, forming lifelong friendships and cherished memories along the way. Her love for the game was a testament to her vibrant and adventurous spirit, which she carried throughout her life.
Emma was known for her unyielding spirit—a blend of directness and compassion that left an indelible impression on everyone she encountered. Her generosity knew no bounds; she gave freely of her time and energy to uplift those around her. Whether guiding her family with wisdom or fostering connections within the broader community, Emma’s presence was both grounding and inspiring.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Jesus "Popsy" Sarono; son-in-law Sanitoa Tuvale; and siblings May Kamelamela, Jack Baker, Howard Baker, Edward Baker, and Leonard Mamala. She is survived by her loving children: daughter Rose Tuvale of Tacoma and son Kalima Kama of Tacoma; grandchildren Angelina Sarono (Sandra) of Tacoma, Etisone Tuvale of Tacoma, Kanoe Mahinalani Higa (Michael) of Steilacoom, and
Courtney Rose Nansen (Richard) of Tacoma; sister Susie Kama (Thomas Popovich) of Honolulu; brother George Baker of Honolulu; six great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members who will carry forward her legacy.
Funeral services honoring Emma’s life will take place on Friday, January 17, 2025, at Mountain View Funeral Home in Lakewood (4100 Steilacoom Blvd SW). A private family viewing will begin at 12 p.m., followed by services at 1 p.m., with graveside service directly afterward. To celebrate Emma’s remarkable life and enduring spirit as a community leader and beloved matriarch, a potluck gathering will be held on Saturday, January 18 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Amvets Hall Post 1 (5717 S Tyler St., Tacoma). Viewing for friends and family is scheduled on Thursday, January 16th, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the funeral home as well.
Emma Maka‘olono Sarono leaves behind a legacy woven with faithfulness to God and steadfast devotion to family and culture. Her memory will forever be a source of comfort for all who had the privilege to know her. May we honor her by carrying forward the values she so deeply cherished—aloha for one another above all else.
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