Kawaihae Obituary 11/26/2025
Milton Gervin “Shorty” Bertelmann, 78, of Kawaihae died Nov. 26 at home. Born in Honolulu, he was an original crew member of Hokule‘a‘s maiden voyage to Tahiti, leader and crew member of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, founder of Na Kalai Wa‘a Moku o Keawe, builder of the canoe Makali‘i, pwo-initiated Soauseraeg, student of Paliuw, and teacher of non-instrument, deep-sea navigation and wayfinding traditions, a status bestowed upon him by Rhaepinwoag Pius Mau Piailug and the people of Satawal. He was also a Hawaiian homestead rancher and former employee of Bertelmann Inc. and Grace Pacific. Visitation 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at family property near 64-740 Kahilu Rd. on Hawaiian Homes Farm Lots in Waimea. Signs will be posted in Kuhio Village and on Mana Road. Celebration of life service and fellowship with ‘ohana to follow until 5 p.m. Aloha attire; flowers and lei welcome. Survived by wife, Sue Bertelmann of Kawaihae; son, Kainalu Bertelmann of Kawaihae; daughter, Bree Malia (Shayne) Bertelmann of Kalopa; sister, Lynda Bertelmann of Waimea; sisters-in-law, Delsa Bertelmann and Deedee Bertelmann of Waimea,Kathy Hau of Kahaluu; four grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary.
