Robert and Nobuko Mookini Endowed Financial Aid Fund

Dr. Robert K. Mookini Jr. was a talented pianist who loved classical music as much as he admired the creative genius of the Beatles. Of Native Hawaiian and Chinese descent, he grew up during the Depression, attended Saint Louis High School and was grateful to have the opportunity to be part of a vibrant, intellectual and supportive community.

As much as he aspired to a career in the arts, he ended up going to medical school at Tulane University as a way to help support his stepmother. He became a Board Certified urologist with a small private practice. His patients could always rely on his warm bedside manner and hearty laughter. And you knew he was nearby when you heard him whistling a song or two.

Bob met his wife Nobuko at Queens Hospital where she was a medical social worker. Nobuko was born in Hawai‘i, one of seven children (Nisei). Nobuko was a trailblazer and found her way to Washington University for her Master’s degree in Social Work (no small feat crossing the Pacific Ocean to get to Missouri in the 1950s!). Nobuko was the glue that kept the extended family together, always making sure that the aunties, uncles and cousins gathered for every holiday. Bob and Nobuko’s home became a comfortable gathering place with relatives and friends always stopping by for advice, support or an encouraging word.

This endowed fund memorializes two generous, caring and warm-spirited individuals who gave unconditionally to others. Providing financial support to a student who is of Native Hawaiian descent and/or who demonstrates strong family values would be a fitting tribute to the lives of Bob and Nobuko Mookini. This endowed fund represents a small token of gratitude from their daughter, Marie Mookini ’74, who had the privilege of attending Punahou for 13 years – grateful for the gift of an education that has opened so many doors of opportunity. The Robert and Nobuko Mookini Endowed Financial Aid Fund was established by Marie Mookini ’74 and Roland Pasternack.

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Punahou School

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