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About Us
The Kona Difference
Since 1964, we have been honored to deliver healing experiences to the Holualoa community. We exist to serve the unique needs of every family. Learn our story. Lean on us. And let our expertise lead you through the best experience possible.
Our pledge
We’re here to give you care and comfort as we help guide you through the planning journey.
Our Story
We've learned a lot about caring for families over the years. We realize that we aren't just caring for a loved one, but the entire family. People come to us during their most difficult times, and we respond with kindness, understanding and expertise. Our goal is to make everyone feel at home as we work with them to create a memorable service in honor of a beautiful life.
Splendor for acres
Kona Memorial Park and Crematory was established years ago, and serving families has always been our focus. We take pride in maintaining a setting that allows people to find solace.
Celebrating life
Celebrating life is our mission. That’s never changed. And with pride, it never will.
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100K+
Legacies Honored
62
Years in Business
3M+
Moments Remembered
Our team
We're members of the local community who have many years of experience caring for families from all backgrounds and all walks of life. Families know they can count on us to provide them the comfort they need when they need it most.
Marlene Eleneki
Administrative Assistant
Porscha Saragosa
Funeral Arranger
Latisha Saragosa
Edna (Loke) Russell
Family Service Advisor
Crystal ORielly
Office Manager
Melonie Lucero
Family Service Advisor
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Joshua Stensrud
Managing Partner of Operations
Josh started his career in the funeral business at the age of 17 and has been serving families for nearly three decades. Joshua holds a Mortuary Science Degree in Funeral Services and Mortuary Science from Delgado Community College. He has worked in various roles at several funeral homes throughout his career. He is a valuable contributor to the industry and is passionate about helping families during their time of loss.
Chris Eissler
Managing Partner , Sales
Christopher J. Eissler is Managing Partner, Family Service at Kona Memorial Park & Crematory in Holualoa, Hawaii, bringing over 4 years of expertise in the funeral home industry. His journey began as a Family Service Counselor in Houston, Texas, and later progressed to a Supervisor position in Tacoma, Washington. With a background as a Corporate Executive Chef and Master Sommelier, Chris infuses his role with a dedication to high service standards and genuine compassion.
Chris obtained an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts from SUNY Cobleskill, followed by a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel Administration from UNLV. His commitment to continuous growth led him to acquire certificates from esteemed institutions such as the Culinary Institute of America, International Pastry Arts Center, and Court of Master Sommeliers. By working and studying in Germany, France, and Italy, Chris has gained invaluable international experience.
When asked about his favorite part of being in service to families, Chris said, “I’ve been able to provide comfort and support during their most difficult times. It's an honor to guide them through the funeral planning process and help create meaningful tributes that celebrate their loved ones' lives. Seeing the impact our services have on families and knowing that I've made a positive difference is truly rewarding."
Currently enrolled at Rice University, Chris remains dedicated to his personal and professional development. His extensive background in the culinary arts and hospitality industry equips him with the skills necessary to provide exceptional service to families in their time of need.
Joy Bohol
Family Service Advisor
Joy Bohol is a dedicated Memorialization Specialist with Homelani & Kona Memorial Parks and Crematory, where she helps families prepare with peace of mind for life's most important transitions. With heart for service and a deep respect for Hawai'i's values of aloha and 'ohana, Joy guides individuals and families through the funeral preplanning process with compassion, clarity, and care.
Her mission is simple: to make a difficult topic easier by creating space for open conversation, thoughtful planning, and financial peace of mind. Joy believes that planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts a person can give their loved ones, ensuring that families can focus on healing and remembrance rather than last-minute decisions.
Born in Hawai'i, Joy brings a local perspective to her work, honoring cultural traditions while providing practical solutions for today's families. Her approachable style and genuine care have earned her the trust of many in the community, especially kupuna (elders) and veterans who value preparation and dignity.
When she's not serving families, Joy enjoys connecting with her community, spending time with 'ohana, and embracing the beauty of island life. She finds fulfillment in helping others live with peace today by planning for tomorrow.
Tianmin Ren
Family Service Advisor
Tianmin Ren speaks Mandarin, Cantonese & English. He professionally assists families from different cultural backgrounds with his experience and knowledge.
任天民精通普通话、粤语和英语。他凭借丰富的经验和专业知识,为来自不同文化背景的家庭提供专业协助。
任天民精通普通話、粵語及英語。他憑藉豐富的經驗與專業知識,為來自不同文化背景的家庭提供專業協助。
任天民は、北京語、広東語、英語を話します。彼はその経験と知識を活かし、さまざまな文化的背景を持つご家族を専門的にサポートしています。
Tianmin Ren habla mandarín, cantonés e inglés. Gracias a su experiencia y conocimientos, ayuda de manera profesional a familias de diferentes orígenes culturales.
We illuminate paths to peace with personalized ceremonies and memorial tributes that honor your loved one.
What Families Are Saying
Beautiful park in Kona!
Author: Brad B rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Joy in Hilo was kind, patient, and helpful, a true woman of aloha. Unpretentious, genuine, and a helper rather than a salesperson. She never hurried, never pushed, and never made us feel she'd prefer to be elsewhere. The experience was made much easier than it might otherwise have been.
Author: Charles Clark rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
One of the most beautiful cemetery locations in the world. Loke Russell and her team are incredible to work with.
Author: Greg Bensken rated with 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
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Join us
We offer a healthy work/life balance and invite ideas and innovation. Kona Memorial Park and Crematory is where our team members' purpose and passion unite.