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Abner M. (Rick) Kama III, 90

| January 29, 2025 1:00 AM

Abner M. (Rick) Kama III, 90, passed away peacefully at home Jan. 26, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Rick was born March 4, 1934, in Kalapana, Territory of Hawaii, to Annie Campbell Kama. The youngest of six children, he grew up immersed in Hawaii’s rich culture and natural beauty, shaping a lifelong love for the ocean and a deep connection to his heritage.

At 17, driven by a strong sense of duty and adventure, Rick enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Over the next 24 years, he built an extraordinary military career, serving in the Korean War in 1952 and completing three tours in Vietnam between 1964 and 1970. His valor and dedication earned him numerous commendations, including a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, and three Purple Hearts. Rick’s leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment left a lasting impact on those who served alongside him and the nation he defended. He retired in 1976, concluding a distinguished career of honor and sacrifice.

In 1974, Rick married Janet Louise Groff Kama of Leola, Pa. Their 51-year partnership was a testament to love, resilience, and shared adventure. Together, they raised a son, Jason Kama, and built a life defined by family, service, and passion for the water.

For 18 years, Rick and Janet lived in Honolulu, Hawaii, where Rick became a dedicated advocate for traditional Hawaiian canoe paddling. He coached for the Marine Corps Canoe Club in Kaneohe and later the Hawaiian Warriors Canoe Club in Honolulu. He also paddled for the Kawaihae Canoe Club in Hilo and competed in multiple Molokai Channel crossings, inspiring teams with his leadership, skill, and unyielding determination.

Never one to sit still, Rick became well known for his craftsmanship, building handmade catamarans and repairing boats — always willing to share his deep knowledge and love of the ocean with others. He was also passionate about researching and preserving traditional Hawaiian craftsmanship, creating many traditional tools using native materials and modern woodworking techniques. His dedication to keeping these skills alive reflected his deep respect for Hawaiian culture and history.

In 1990, Rick, Janet, and Jason moved to Pahoa, Hawaii, where they embraced agricultural life, cultivating limes, Hawaiian chili peppers, and maile on their farm.

Rick’s dedication to his fellow veterans was lifelong. He was an active life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3830 in Pahoa, serving as Quartermaster from 2015 to 2016. He also held life memberships in Disabled American Veterans Chapter 6, American Legion Post 3, and the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

In 2021, Rick and Janet relocated to Hayden, Idaho, to be closer to family. In his later years, he found joy in sharing stories, imparting wisdom to the next generation, and, when time allowed, sneaking in a bit of fishing.

Rick was preceded in death by his mother, Annie, and his siblings. He is survived by his wife, Janet Kama; his son, Jason Kama, and son-in-law, Clint Schroeder, all of Hayden, Idaho; his son, A.M. Kama IV, and daughter, Lynette Kama, both of Michigan. He also leaves behind five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his enduring legacy.

Rick will be remembered as a courageous Marine, a devoted husband and father, a skilled craftsman, and a mentor to many.

A celebration of Rick’s extraordinary life will be announced at a later date and held in Pahoa, Hawaii.