In search of the Next Wave

The Royal House Of Kawananakoa announces the passing of his Royal Highness Prince David Klaren La'amea Kaumuali'i Kawananakoa, beloved son of the late Prince Edward Abnel Keli'iahonui Kawananakoa, Sr., and the late Lila De Clark Whitaker Kawananakoa.

Prince David passed peacefully on May 1, 2025, at his residence in Manoa, O'ahu, surrounded by his loved ones. the nephew of the late Princess Abigail Kinoiki Kekaulike Kawananakoa.

Between Hawai'i and Carmel, where he developed a deep appreciation for both his Hawaiian heritage and the adventurous spirit that marked his life, including a lifelong passion for motorcycle riding.

Prince David's lineage is one of profound historical significance. his fourth great-grandfather and namesake, King Kaumuali'i, was the last sovereign of Kaua'i before the unification of the Hawaiian islands under king Kamehameha i in 1810.

He was also named for his great-grandfather, HRH Prince David La'amea Kahalepouli Kinoiki Kawananakoa, elder brother of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana'ole Pi'ikoi, both of whom were designated crowned princes of the Hawaiian Kingdom by his majesty King Kalakaua.

Through these ancestral lines, prince David was connected to all of Hawai'i's major royal bloodlines, embodying a legacy of Ali'i leadership, service, and dignity.

Prince David is survived by his devoted wife, Princess Maria Kawananakoa, and stepson, Massimiliano; his aunt, Princess Esther Kapi'olani Napelakapuokaka'e Kawananakoa Marignoli; his brothers, Prince Quentin Kuhio Kawananakoa and Prince Pi'ikoi Kawananakoa; stepbrother Corey Branch; stepsister, Young Elena Branch; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was predeceased by his beloved sister, Princess Regina Abigail Wahiika'ahu'ula Kawananakoa, and his brother, Prince Edward Abnel Keli'iahonui Kawananakoa Jr. and step brother Travis Branch.

in addition to his noble lineage, Prince David was a distinguished leader in Hawaiian cultural and civic life. He served as Iku Ho'ano (First Vice Regent) of the Kumu'ahakalani (Supreme Council) of the Hale O Na Ali'i o Hawai'i, was a lifelong member of the prince Kuhio Hawaiian Civic Club, and belonged to the Esteemed Order of Hui Mamaka 'Aialo, honoring his commitment to the Preservation of Hawaiian traditions and the well-being of the Lahui.