Update:

It is with profound sadness and the heaviest of hearts that we share the news of Vene's passing. After a courageous fight against cancer, Vene passed away with his family by his side on Wednesday, October 22, 2025.

We want to take a moment to thank every single person who has supported him and his family—whether through a donation, a share, or a prayer. Your incredible generosity and aloha provided comfort and vital assistance throughout Vene's illness, and for that, we will be eternally grateful.

As the family navigates this time of immense loss, we are now concentrating our efforts on raising $20k+ to cover Vene's funeral and memorial expenses. We want to ensure he receives a final send-off that honors his memory.

We encourage you to send donations directly to Angela via Venmo, as this is the quickest way for her to receive the funds. You can, of course, still donate through this GoFundMe page if you prefer.

Her Venmo is: @angela-chun-39

(The last four digits of her phone number are 5365)

Thank you again for your continued kindness, compassion, and support during this incredibly difficult time. We will share details regarding the memorial services as soon as they are finalized.

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Our dear friend Vene, a pillar of the Maui community, is facing an unimaginable challenge, and he needs our urgent support. What began over a month ago as a serious spinal injury requiring emergency surgery has revealed a devastating diagnosis: spinal cancer. He has been recovering from surgery and is currently awaiting further results to determine the full extent and best course of treatment.

This news has shaken Vene, his loving ohana, and community. Vene has been out of work for over a month now, and the bills are already mounting at an alarming rate. Yet, true to his character, Vene remains in good spirits, facing this battle with the same resilience and positivity he brings to everything he does.

For those of us lucky enough to know Vene, we know he is a man dedicated to serving others. He's not just a friend; he's a vital cultural liaison, tirelessly working to bridge the gap between visitors and our island's youth, teaching invaluable Hawaiian practices and values. His contributions have enriched countless lives and strengthened the fabric of our island home.

Vene is also a devoted husband and father of two. His ohana has already endured immense loss in recent years, with Vene losing his father, mother, and brother within a short period. This latest battle adds another layer of heartbreak to their lives.

Adding to the emotional weight of this situation, Vene's daughter, Alohalani, recently received a full-ride volleyball scholarship to a university on the mainland. Sadly, due to Vene's critical condition, he is unable to take her to her first year of college – a moment they both have long anticipated.

The funds raised through this GoFundMe will go directly to helping Vene and his ohana with the bills that are rapidly accumulating. Beyond the immediate financial burden, these funds will also help alleviate some of the stress and allow Vene to focus on his long and challenging road to recovery.

Vene has given so much to our community, always with an open heart and a helping hand. Now, it's our turn to show him the same aloha and support he has so generously extended to all of us.

Every donation, no matter how small, will make a significant difference. Please consider contributing and sharing Vene's story with your networks. Let's wrap our arms around Vene and his ohana during this incredibly difficult time.

Mahalo nui loa for your aloha and generosity.