Israel Kamakawiwoole: Spouse, Life, & Legacy | Latest News

What defines a legend? Is it the accolades, the chart-topping hits, or the indelible mark left on the hearts of millions? In the case of Israel "Iz" Kamakawiwoole, it's all of these, interwoven with a profound connection to his Hawaiian heritage, that cemented his place as a musical icon.

Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, on May 20, 1959, Israel Kamakawiwoole, affectionately known as "Bruddah Iz," possessed a voice that could soothe the soul and a spirit that radiated warmth. Though his life was tragically cut short, his legacy continues to resonate, his music a testament to the power of aloha and the enduring beauty of the islands. His roots, though often associated with Makaha and Niihau, were firmly planted in Kaimuki, where his parents, Henry Kalei'aloha Naniwa and Evangeline Leinani Kamakawiwoole, met and married, settling on 9th and Kalua Streets. He spent his formative years playing in the Palolo River and frequenting the Kaimuki Theater, experiences that undoubtedly shaped his artistic sensibilities. He was surrounded by music from a young age, a fact that his parents recognized early on. They knew their son was destined for greatness even before he sang his first notes. His birth coincided with a crucial period in Hawaii's history, as the islands transitioned from a territory to a U.S. state.

Category	Details
Full Name	Israel Kaanoi Kamakawiwoole
Nickname	Iz, Bruddah Iz
Date of Birth	May 20, 1959
Place of Birth	Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
Date of Death	June 26, 1997
Cause of Death	Respiratory failure, complications from obesity
Occupation	Musician, Singer, Ukulele Player, Hawaiian Activist
Genres	Hawaiian Contemporary, Reggae, Pop, Folk
Instruments	Ukulele, Vocals
Spouse	Marlene Kamakawiwoole (married in 1982)
Children	Ceslieanne "Wehi" Wehe Kamakawiwoole (daughter)
Notable Albums	Ka Anoi (1990), Facing Future (1993), N Dis Life (1996)
Awards and Recognition	Na Hoku Hanohano Lifetime Achievement Award
Website for Reference	Official Website

His music transcended geographical boundaries, his Hawaiian heritage resonating with people worldwide. His connection to the islands was not just a superficial one; it was woven into the very fabric of his being, reflected in every note he played and every word he sang. This deep connection is apparent in his music, and it is an essential part of who he was. He lived in Honolulu, Hawaii, with his wife and daughter, and he was married to Marlene Kamakawiwoole.

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His wife, Marlene, was his childhood sweetheart, and their marriage was a testament to enduring love. Though the challenges of life and the pressures of his fame were often present, Marlene remembered him fondly, sharing the joy and love that defined their bond. The couple wed in their early 20s, and their family expanded with the arrival of their daughter, Ceslieanne Wehekealake'alekupuna Ah Lo, affectionately known as Wehe. Marlene was the widow of the late singer, and her name remains synonymous with her husband. She was born in 1962 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The couple got married in 1982 and remained together until his death on June 26, 1997.

The story of Israel Kamakawiwoole is intertwined with the story of his music, his love for his family, and his dedication to his people. He could serenade an entire room into awestruck silence with only his voice and a ukulele. The simplicity of his artistry, however, belied the depth of his impact. He wasn't just a musician; he was a cultural ambassador, sharing the spirit of aloha with the world. In 1990, he released his first solo album, Ka Anoi, a milestone that garnered him recognition, including awards from the Hawaii Academy of Recording Arts (HARA) for Contemporary Album of the Year and Male Vocalist of the Year. Later, in 1997, all of Hawaii mourned his death, and more than 10,000 people attended his state funeral, honoring his memory. A maile and ilima lei and a proclamation honoring Israel were presented. Marlene Kamakawiwoole, wearing a dark blue velvet holoku, sat beside the casket in a rattan throne chair, with their daughter Ceslieanne Wehe, 14, at her side. At the other side was his sister, Lydia Kauakahi, and members of her family. The entertainer's wife, Marlene Kamakawiwoole, wearing a dark blue velvet holoku, sat beside the casket in a rattan throne chair, with their daughter Ceslieanne Wehe, 14, at her side. At the other side was his sister, Lydia Kauakahi, and members of her family.

His signature song, a medley of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World," continues to enchant listeners across generations. His Hawaiian heritage is clearly heard in his music. The song is not just a song; it is a feeling. This is a testament to his ability to connect with people on an emotional level. His music provided a bridge between cultures, and a connection to the heart of Hawaii. Marlene Kamakawiwoole is well known for being the wife of the late Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwoole. She has one child, Ceslieanne Wehi Kamakawiwoole, who is a mother of five and a ukulele player. Ceslieanne Wehe Kamakawiwoole, born in 1983, is 39 years old as of 2022. She is the only child of her parents, and her nickname is "Wehi."

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His music reached millions, but he remained grounded, a true son of Hawaii. His legacy isn't confined to the charts or the awards he received; it lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by his music and his message of love, peace, and the enduring spirit of aloha. He was also a Hawaiian sovereignty activist.