It is with deep love that we announce the passing of William Pila Laronal, known as “Billy,” on November 29, 2025, at the age of 75. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, on February 1, 1949, Pila grew up in Aiea at Halawa Heights Housing, attending Aiea Elementary and Intermediate Schools. He was a proud 1967 graduate of Lahaina Luna High School and an athlete at heart who enjoyed surfing, football, and javelin.

At 18, Pila left Hawaii with $60 and a one-way ticket to California, where he pursued a career as a chef, working at Alfie’s on Sunset Boulevard. It was there he met his first wife, Pamela, and they had a daughter, Shawneen. After some time, he returned to Hawaii and married Roxanne, settling at the “Waiahole Art Gallery,” later known as the “Waiahole Poi Factory,” where they had a son, William Kahea Laronal III.

Pila was passionate about Hawaii’s culture and history, dedicating much of his life to documenting and advocating for his community. He worked in media, radio, and as an activist, focusing on issues like houselessness and the rights of Native Hawaiian people. His contributions extended to radio, where he hosted the first Hawaii radio show in Washington, worked with the Nisqually Tribe, and helped return the Hokule’a and Hawai'iloa canoes to the Pacific Northwest.

Pila also edited the first Hawaiian newspaper in Washington, Hale Pai, and continued his work in radio and media, fostering connections between the Hawaiian and Native American communities. His friendships with many, including Steven and Paige Newcomb, Steve Benegas, and his many collaborators, helped further amplify voices advocating for justice and cultural preservation. He spent the later years of his life traveling along the West Coast, creating gatherings for Hawaiian and tribal communities.

A humble, behind-the-scenes figure, Pila’s dedication to his family and community left an indelible mark. He is survived by his children, Shawneen, Kahea, Rosita Leilani, and Kapi’olani, and siblings Brenda, Janet, and Mike. He was preceded in death by his parents, Betty Ann Leilani and William, and brothers Wesley and Clifford.

Pila’s legacy as a cultural advocate and community builder lives on through his work and the lives he touched. A celebration of his life will be held February 8, 2025.

Aloha, Dad. Until we meet again.

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