Marlene & Israel Kamakawiwo'ole: A Look At Their Life & Family
How well do we truly know the lives intertwined with the luminaries who shape our world? Marlene Kamakawiwoole, the wife of the legendary Hawaiian musician Israel Kamakawiwoole, embodies this very question, a figure whose story is as compelling as the music that defined her late husband's legacy.
The echoes of Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoole's voice still resonate, carrying the warmth of the Hawaiian islands across the globe. But behind the iconic ukulele and the soaring vocals lies a tapestry woven with threads of love, loss, and quiet resilience. Marlene, his wife, stands as a testament to a love story that began in childhood, a bond that endured the highs and lows of a life lived in the public eye. Their paths converged in 1982, a year that marked both a joyous union and a profound loss for the Kamakawiwoole family. In the same year that IZ and Marlene exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony surrounded by friends and family, IZ also mourned the passing of his older brother, Skippy.
Their wedding, a traditional affair, served as a beacon of hope amidst the shadow of grief. The world would come to know Israel Kamakawiwoole as a musical icon, but for Marlene, he was first and foremost her beloved spouse, the man she had loved since their youth. His songs, infused with the spirit of Aloha, have become anthems for Hawaiians and a source of solace for countless others. The melodic beauty of traditional Hawaiian music flowed through his veins, a heritage he would share with the world, all the while anchored by his connection with Marlene. The couple were blessed with one child together, Ceslieanne Wehi Kamakawiwoole, born in 1983. Today, Wehi, now a married woman in her late 30s, is a mother of five children, a testament to the enduring strength of family that IZ and Marlene built together.
Marlene, a resident of Pearl City, reportedly maintains a low profile. After IZ's death on June 26, 1997, Marlene inherited a substantial legacy. Her husband's musical career, which brought joy to so many, contributed significantly to his net worth. The estate, valued at $3 million, was passed on to his beloved wife and daughter, reflecting the depth of their relationship. This quiet strength and devotion to family have shaped Marlene's life and continue to influence the legacy of her late husband.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marlene Kamakawiwoole |
| Known For | Wife of Israel Kamakawiwoole |
| Birthdate | N/A |
| Birthplace | N/A |
| Spouse | Israel Kamakawiwoole (married 1982, until his death in 1997) |
| Children | Ceslieanne Wehi Kamakawiwoole |
| Residence | Pearl City, Hawaii |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $3 million (inherited) |
| Relationship Status | Widowed |
| Link to More Information | Official Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoole Website |
The love story of Marlene and Israel wasnt just a tale of two individuals; it was a shared journey intertwined with the essence of Hawaii. They were childhood sweethearts, a bond that matured and deepened over the years. Marlene, who was only 20 years old at the time of their wedding in 1982, gave up a potential career in entertainment to devote her life to her family. She was not just a wife, she was a constant companion, the quiet force that sustained him. Though she sometimes felt taken for granted, her love and care for him remained unwavering. Her husband was regarded as one of the greatest musicians from Hawaii. His contribution to Hawaiian culture and the music world is immeasurable, with Marlene standing right beside him. The couple's story is a reminder of the beauty of enduring love, even in the face of adversity.
The year 1982 was pivotal, as Marlene and Israel took a step towards a shared future. They married that year, while also enduring a personal loss with the death of Israel's older brother, Skippy. It was also the year Marlene and Israel married, marking the beginning of their shared life. The wedding was a traditional affair, a private ceremony held in the presence of friends and family. Despite their fame, their ceremony was an intimate event reflecting their strong family values. That year, his childhood sweetheart Marlene, became his wife, their life would intertwine forever. The duo's connection solidified, laying the foundation for a family that would include their daughter, Ceslieanne "Wehi" Kamakawiwoole, born the following year in 1983.
The legacy of Israel Kamakawiwoole extends far beyond his musical achievements. It is also a testament to his deep love for his wife and daughter, and his dedication to his island home. His music continues to resonate with people from all walks of life, transcending cultural boundaries with its message of peace and Aloha. Marlene, the woman who stood beside him through it all, inherited his estate after his passing in June 1997. This inheritance, reportedly $3 million, underscores the financial impact of his musical success and the importance of family in his life. The estate was automatically passed on to his wife and daughter, preserving the family's legacy.
Ceslieanne "Wehi" Kamakawiwoole, born in 1983, is a married woman and mother to five children. This continuity serves as proof of Marlene and Israels commitment to family and tradition. Wehi, the couple's only child, has grown into a strong woman. The fact that she has five children reflects the importance of family that her parents prioritized. Marlene's husband was worth $3 million at the time of his death. This is a reflection of the impact his singing career had on their lives. Marlene and her daughter have chosen to live their lives away from the spotlight, their privacy a reflection of the kind of family they are.
Israel's impact on the music industry and Hawaiian culture has been immense. His music, characterized by his ukulele playing and beautiful voice, continues to inspire and comfort people. In 1990, his album "Ka Anoi" brought him to a wider audience. His 1993 album "Facing Future" solidified his place as a musical icon. The melodies of his songs are infused with the spirit of the islands, and his music is in the hearts of Hawaiians. The couple's life together was a blend of music and love, creating a vibrant tapestry. The world remembers IZ, his music, his island, and the stories he shared.
