Public memorial service for Hawai’i Fire Chief Kazuo Todd planned for Jan. 11 in Hilo

The Hawaiʻi Fire Department and the Todd ʻohana have announced funeral and memorial services for Fire Chief Kazuo S.K.L. Todd, who died unexpectedly the morning of Dec. 14 after suffering an aneurysm at age 45.

A private funeral service and ceremonial procession are scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10, followed by a public memorial service on Sunday, Jan. 11, in Hilo.

“He led the department with humility, courage, compassion and unwavering dedication to public safety,” the department and family said in a joint statement, noting that his leadership and aloha impacted lives across Hawaiʻi Island and beyond.

The department added: “The entire Hawaiʻi Fire Department ʻohana wishes to share its gratitude to the community for its continued support, compassion, and aloha as Chief Todd is honored with the dignity and respect he so greatly deserves.”

On Jan. 10, a procession, including a pass-in-review and final honors, will be held at the Hawaiʻi Fire Department Administration from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

The private memorial service will be held at Dodo Mortuary, with visitation from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and services beginning at 3 p.m. Due to limited seating at the mortuary, attendees are asked to prioritize family members, close friends and ceremonial participants.

The next day, Jan. 11, the community is invited to attend the public memorial service that will take place at Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo.

Doors will open at noon for fellowship and reflection, with the formal program beginning at 2 p.m. Organizers said the gathering will offer an opportunity for community members, partners, friends and ʻohana to reflect on and celebrate Todd’s life and legacy.

Additional logistical details will be released as plans are finalized.