Lambert "Buddy" Keonaona Hiram's Obituary
Age 74, of Jackson, passed away Saturday, March 13, 2021 at the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home. Buddy was born at Kahuku, Oahu, Hawaii to William and Evangeline (Ellis) Hiram. He attended Kamehameha Schools, graduating in 1964. Coming to the mainland on a football scholarship, he earned his Bachelor's degree from Idaho State University and a Master's degree from Michigan State University. Buddy came to Michigan to visit with a close friend and met the love of his life and decided not to return to Hawaii. On November 21, 1970 he married the former Barbara Jo Hawes at a ceremony in Pittsford, MI. For over 30 years, Buddy was an educator and administrator, teaching with the Jonesville and Jackson Public Schools and as a principal with Jackson Public Schools. During that time, Buddy became known as "Coach Hiram" to many as he coached football, volleyball, basketball and track at the high school level. In the education system, he touched the lives of many people and would always seem to meet someone who knew him no matter where he went in the world.
Buddy was a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where he served in many leadership positions throughout the Lansing, Jackson and Hillsdale areas. His strong testimony and love for the Gospel of Jesus Christ guided all aspects of his life.
He loved spending time with his Ohana (family) and friends, including watching and supporting all of his children and grandchildren in their activities. He enjoyed sharing stories of his upbringing and talking about his family and ancestors. He had an amazing voice and loved to sing with his family and in many choirs throughout the area. He loved golfing and enjoyed working at the Ella Sharp Park Golf Learning Center.
He was a large presence who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Buddy is survived by his beloved family, his wife of 50 years, Barbara J. Hiram; four children, Tammy (Robert) Kaye of St. Joe, IN, Daykon (Chantal) Hiram of Mason, MI, Damien (Amanda) Hiram of Onsted, MI and Amber (Joshua) Lewis of Jackson, MI; twelve grandchildren, Kathryn, Robert and Jill Kaye, Croix, Irie, Chase, Mya and Quinn Hiram, Nathaniel, Joshua, Ethan and Olivia Lewis; sister, Evanitta (Pinkie) Crowe and Velma Iopa Warfield; Hanai sister, Karla Paiva; brothers-in-law, Calvin (Wendy) Hawes and Greg (Cathy) Hawes; sister-in-law, Penny Galloup; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, LaVern and Harriet (Ruoff) Hawes; brothers, Juny, Arlington, Edmund, Jeffrey and Eddyington; and sisters, Aloma, Billie, Moana, Ipolani, Noreen, Ermanie and Audrey.
Cremation has taken place and celebration of life visitation will be held Saturday, April 17, 2021 from 2 to 5 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 3019 W. Morrell St. Jackson MI 49203.
For those who wish, contributions in Buddy's memory can be made to the Onsted Athletics Program, 10109 Slee Rd, Onsted, MI 49265 or the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home, 2150 Kingsbrooke Dr., Jackson, MI 49202.
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