Beloved Big Island Kumu Hula Johnny Lum Ho Dies

A Honolulu news outlet reported shortly before 5 p.m. Sunday, April 3, that a beloved kumu hula from the Big Island has died.

According to a story on the Hawai‘i News Now website, family members on Sunday confirmed the death of Johnny Lum Ho and issued a statement.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our beloved brother, uncle and Kumu Hula Johnny Lum Ho,” said the statement from the family that was part of HNN’s story.

The HNN story said Lum Ho was in his 80s.

“While we grieve his passing, he lived a full, blessed life that impacted generations in ways that we know his legacy will live on. We ask that you allow the family and hālau time and privacy to process and mourn. Aloha,” the family’s statement included in the HNN story added.

Lum Ho founded Hālau O Ka Ua Kani Lehua, winning numerous awards through the years, with him and his hālau often being favorites at the Merrie Monarch Festival.

U.S. Congressman Kai Kahele, a Hawaiʻi Democrat from the Big Island, issued a statement following Lum Ho’s death.

“Johnny loved to tell stories of Hawaiʻi, its people and places through his unique style of song and dance. He will be remembered for his commitment to perpetuate the Hawaiian culture, in particular, his passion for hula and unsurpassed leadership as a respected kumu,” said Kahele’s statement. “For decades, he and his Hālau O Ka Ua Kani Lehua graced the Merrie Monarch stage with creativity and memorable performances. Maria and I extend our heartfelt condolences to his ‘ohana and loved ones. We are grateful for his significant contributions to Hawaiian culture and hula. His legacy will continue through the many lives he touched.”

Watch Big Island Now for additional information.