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How did Robert Kekaula die? Hawaii journalist and sportscaster dies at 56

Journalist and sportscaster Robert Kekaula, who was one of Hawaii’s most recognizable personalities, suddenly died on June 19 morning

Robert Kekaula, a long-serving Hawaii journalist and sportscaster, died on Saturday morning, June 19, surrounded by his family. According to family relatives, Kekaula, KITV4's managing editor died at 8.25am a the age of 56.

Kekaula joins a list of journalists who died recently. On June 16, Dick Stolley, who published key footage of JFK's assassination back in 1963, died at the age of 92. Also in June, Christopher Sign, the TV anchor who wrote Bill Clinton's expose was found dead. “We have heavy hearts this morning as our ‘ohana has lost its mighty wings. He lived his life his own way and was so much to so many people. His heart was full of love for his family, sports and most of all music. Our wings are broken but we will fly again one day. And Robert will fly beside us and continue to guide us along the way. Mahalo to everyone who touched his life along this journey. Aloha ‘Oe to our father, partner, brother, uncle and friend. We ask for privacy as we get through this difficult time," his family wrote in a statement.

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How did Robert Kekaula die?

The exact cause of his death is unknown at this time, according to Hawaii New Now. Kekaula, whose outsized personality and generosity made him one of Hawaii’s most recognizable personalities, died suddenly.

Kekaula, a superstar in Hawaii sports media, began his career in broadcast journalism as a weekend sports producer at KGMB. He began working for KITV as a weekend sports anchor and reporter in 1989. In 1994, he left the station for KHNL, then returned in 1997 to work as a sports director at KITV. Kekaula previously worked at KITV as a managing editor. Kekaula has been the play-by-play announcer for University of Hawaii football games for Spectrum Sports for years. Following the news of Kekaula's death, KITV4′s news director Janice Gin said, "He leaves a legacy of being a great communicator, one who understood people of all walks. He appreciated the human spirit and human potential. He loved Hawaii, and the culture that made him proud to be a native son of the Islands.”

Members of the sports community took to Twitter to share their condolences following the news. "I can’t believe it. This is absolutely shocking and saddening. One of the most recognizable figures in all of Hawaii sports media. Had a major impact on all of us. Prayers to his family," said one. “Robert was truly a legend in sports broadcasting in the state of Hawaii and as the voice of University of Hawaii Football. He loved UH sports with a passion. He beld green and white,” said UH Athletics.