Paul Matsuda was a friend and teacher to all, frequently reminding others that the most important thing in life is to be “Two Hs: Happy and Healthy.” The former basketball player for the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo passed away in August 2017, and his surviving friends and family want people to remember how kind and thoughtful he was.
“Paul was smart, funny, and humble,” said Dr. John Uohara of Hilo. “He was my best friend for more than 50 years.” John adds that he and Paul came from “modest beginnings,” but Paul later founded and presided over The Service Group, Inc., a food brokerage company. A devoted father, partner, businessman, friend, brother, and uncle, the 1967 Hilo High School graduate is dearly missed.
Paul Y. Matsuda Endowed Scholarship for UH Hilo Men’s Basketball
Now these loved ones have rallied together in his memory. John leads an effort to keep Paul close to the hearts and minds of the community he loved, establishing the Paul Y. Matsuda Endowed Scholarship for UH Hilo Men’s Basketball. Recipients on the Vulcan men’s basketball team will receive support for tuition, books, fees, and other costs related to attendance.
“From now and forever, Paul Matsuda’s legacy will live while benefitting our student-athletes and program,” said Patrick Guillen, UHH athletic director. “We are incredibly grateful for Dr. Uohara’s generosity and kindness. This scholarship support is vital to our students as they look to achieve their educational goals. What a wonderful testament this is to an enduring friendship.”
The scholarship is certainly vital to Paul’s fellow Vulcans and the town they represent, but it is also evidence of the enduring love he still inspires. John is pleased to know that groups of friends who share similar values can come together to create named gifts such as Paul’s. “This is something other people would like to know about and should be aware of,” he said.
“Don’t we all just want our family and friends to remember us as good people who did good things for others? You go, Paul. It’s now our time to continue your legacy.”
Join us to keep Paul’s legacy alive
Support the Paul Y. Matsuda Endowed Scholarship for UH Hilo Men’s Basketball.
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Questions? / More Information
If you would like to learn how you can support UH students and programs like this, please contact us at 808 376-7800 or send us a message.
