Auntie Irmgard is
still with us in song

[AN APPRECIATION]

Some people have been around so long, you think they'll always be there. Irmgard Keali'iwahinealoha Nohokahao Puamana Farden Aluli was among them.

Her presence swayed through the spectrum of Hawaii's community, mixing with everyone from movers and shakers to busboys and waitresses at the old Willows restaurant. She was performer, singing in a rich alto, playing guitar, ukulele, bass and piano. She was composer, writing hundreds of songs, the most famous was "Puamana," a fond tribute to her home and family on Maui.

She was teacher, not only to students at the University of Hawaii and the public schools, but for generations of island musicians. She was captivating storyteller. She was matriarch, kupuna, world traveler. She was dignified, kolohe, stern and merry.

She died Thursday, three days before her 90th birthday.

Still and all, her presence remains, every time someone plays "E Maliu Mai," or "Laupahoehoe Hula," every time someone sings the lilting "Puamana."

Cynthia Oi

See also: Corky's Hawaii today.

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