Harold Hakuole

[George Keoki Lake]

I've just received word that HAROLD HAKUOLE has left us. Those who knew and/or heard Harold play the steel guitar will appreciate the fact he was one of the best in Hawai'i. Harold had a great sense of humour and a style of vocalizing which reflected his personality while performing. For many years he was featured with Sonny Kamehele, Walter Mo'okini at the Halekulani "House Without a Key"...sadly, each has passed away. Harold will be greatly missed by many of his old friends, including myself.

[Ron Whitfield]

Really sorry to have heard this last night, Harold was a great guy and fine steeler that always downplayed his considerable abilities. Using Barney Isaacs as his steel template he played either steel or rhythm with all the post war greats.

The Hawaiian band received the news last night with a dedication of Waikiki in Harold's memory, with beautiful steel by his friend Bobby Ingano.

[Mike Neer]

Rest in peace, Harold.

[Don Kona Woods]

I first met Harold, along with Walter Mo'okini, in 1989 at Winchester. They both accompanied Alan Akaka who was the special guest steel guitar artist that year.

My first impression about him, was his great sense of humor. He was always joshing.

Over the years when we would get together in Hawaii, it would always be fun. We did alot of kidding with each other. He always had great come-backs.

What was amazing about Harold was that he had so many talents, but he was so very modest about them. He could sing regular, sing falsetto, play rhythm, ukelele, bass guitar and of course steel guitar. He was a great steel guitarist but he never let you know about his steel guitar playing. It never became apparent until after Barney Isaac's passed on and Harold took his place at the Halekulani.

My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

Aloha Ke Akua,
Don

[Mat Rhodes]