Dr. Stu
On Tuesday March 11, 2014, Dr. Stuart Wakatsuki passed away after a long battle with cancer. He was an orthopedic surgeon with The Windward Orthopaedic Group, specializing in foot, ankle and sports medicine.
Dr. Wakatsuki was a graduate of Punahou School and St. Louis School of Medicine in Missouri. He then became a foot and ankle specialist through a fellowship at Allegheny University in Philadelphia. With an exceptional reputation on the Windward side as a skilled surgeon who demonstrated the highest ethical standards, he always remained a humble and caring professional.
His Celebration of Life was held on Saturday at the Aloha Shriners Beach Club in Waimanalo.
Personally, I’ve know Stuart since high school when we competed against each other in athletics. To the staff of F&L, Stuart was known simply as a friend. He was an integral part of F&L’s decision to plant roots on the Windward side. Owner Art Lum summed it up best:
“A champion in all walks of life. Any thoroughbred comes from a pure breed. A recognized and well respected family line. His dad, Judge Wakatsuki, stood firm and tall in his years on the bench. His mom, an avid supporter of UH sports teams and family. Her eyes, like Stu’s, spoke of the enthusiasm and vitality in their walk in life.
Stu never strayed the solid line of integrity and goodwill. There was no question in the strike zone, always consistent in calling the balls and strikes. He often paused during discussions, asking for clarity. Whether the topic was on medical diagnosis, business owners flaps, family and father matters, husband issues, and/or SPORTS, you could count on him to give you his decision and the basis behind it.
Like a Champion, he valued preparation and peak performance. He hated losing and was quick to go to the drawing board to formulate a new strategy. His battle with Cancer was no different. With each pitch that was thrown, he knew exactly his role. To call the shots in taking care of family, friends, and colleagues. He knew his days were numbered and left his legacy in the stories shared by all in this past Saturday’s Celebration of Life. Champions live on and in my book, a true Hall of Famer.”
We will miss Stuart greatly. Rest in peace.
