William Awihilima Kahaiali’i better known to his fans as Willie K lost his battle with lung cancer at the young age of 59. Willie was a Maui native who was known for performing Hawaiian, Blues, Rock even Opera music for well over 3 decades in Hawaii. He passed away peacefully on May 18th surrounded by his family. 

Willie K. was diagnosed with lung cancer two years ago. He was hospitalized in mid February due to pneumonia, which was causing complications with his lung cancer. Even through his struggle, he kept in high spirits, keeping faith and looking forward to performing again. 

His legacy is unmatched. He has won 19 Na Hoku Hanohano awards and was nominated for a Grammy in the first year of the show’s Best Hawaiian Music Album Award. Uncle Willie was known for being a highly inspirational musician who always put aloha first and gave hope to the newer generations of artists. 

A hui hou Uncle Willie.