Dierdre Kailiawa: Remembering My Brother

Billy with his sisters Kapi, Kina, Keola and Dierdre.

I know you are in a much better place. But the pain and sorrow of losing you, even though we knew it was coming, is so hard to deal with. The legacy you left behind is just incredible - so many memories and lasting impressions. You were such a positive, inspirational force in all our lives. I feel truly blessed to have had you as a brother, friend, motivator and great person. You truly embodies the spirit of Can Do, so many accomplishments, never letting anything get you down. You were never afraid of anyone (except Mom and Dad) or anything, and would not let anything get in your way.

I’ll never forget our hunting/camping trip to the ditch house. You rode Wonder girl, a very frisky buckskin horse. She bucked you off, not once or twice, but at least a dozen times. You just got right back up on her and rode. That kind of tenacity isn’t too common, but that’s how you lived your life. One of the things that impressed me the most was when you said you don’t have a bucket list, it’s all been done. I am just awed by your achievements in your short life, I am proud and blessed to have had you as a brother.

Takako and Liam, Justin and Mahina meant more than the world to you and they are a wonderful family! Bill you and your legacy will be truly missed! Until we meet again. A Hui Hou!!

Love always, Deirdre