Stephen Shoji Watarai's Obituary
Stephen Shoji Watarai (Honolulu, Hawaiʻi)
Stephen Shoji Watarai, a beloved resident of Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, passed away on June 6, 2026, due to cancer. Born on May 1, 1944, in Honolulu, he was a proud graduate of Saint Louis School, Class of 1962, where he played football.
Stephen dedicated 42 years of service to the Honolulu Police Department, beginning as a cadet and rising through the ranks to become Assistant Chief. Throughout his tenure, he was respected for his unwavering dedication, strong leadership, and steadfast commitment to serving both the community and his fellow officers. Among his many accomplishments, Stephen was credited with helping reduce crime in the Kalihi area through community policing initiatives, including his work with the Weed and Seed Program. In recognition of his outstanding leadership, he received the City and County of Honolulu's Manager of the Year Award in 1999.
Beyond his law enforcement career, Stephen was passionate about coaching and mentoring youth athletes. He coached several sports, including football at Saint Louis School and Kaiser High School alongside the Lee brothers, helping guide teams to numerous Prep Bowl championships.
Stephen is survived by his devoted wife, June; children Stuart, Julie, and Jennifer; sister Carole; two nephews; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and Peter Watarai.
Stephen will be remembered for his dedication to family, public service, and the community he loved. His legacy of leadership, mentorship, and aloha will endure in the lives of those he touched.
A service to honor Stephen's life will be held at Diamond Head Mortuary Chapel on July 31, 2026. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 12:00 p.m.
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