Jac Kean, 71
John (Jac) Maxwell Kean 1953-2023
Our beloved Jac Kean left us on December 9 while bodysurfing at his favorite beach, Slaughterhouse. Back in 1976 when Jac moved to Maui following his former wife, Julie, he lived on the west side and he would travel to Slaughterhouse every morning to bodysurf. He quickly fell deeply in love with Maui and never left. His wife Susan, and children Ali (Tomas), Robin (Jen), Chelsea (Andrew), and Kegan (Liv) are heartbroken at his loss.
Susan and Jac were best friends and avid outdoors enthusiasts. They had recently moved from the south shore to Kapalua and loved discovering the Kapalua trails and snorkeling spots together. Jac grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area and went to Cal Davis. As an eagle scout he developed a love for being in nature and many don’t know that he loved and collected butterflies and knew the name of most every plant on Maui. Jac and Susan travelled the world biking and hiking together with so many friends.
Jac was known for his infectious love of life, and perpetually happy spirit. He was kind, generous, compassionate, and brilliant. Many looked to him for his wisdom and guidance. Jac built many homes, commercial properties and businesses on his beloved Maui, some of which were sadly lost in the Lahaina fires. He was deeply saddened over the loss of Lahaina, spending his recent months trying to work with others to find a path forward. Jac was always thinking of ways to better the lives of his family members, as well as our Maui community, serving on non-profit boards and was considered a generous philanthropist on Maui.
Jac is preceded in death by his mother, father, and a brother. His siblings Jeff (Joanna), Dick, Carol (Ron), Jan (Tom) and “other brother” Jeff (Valorie) and all his nieces and nephews are part of this very tight family. He and Susan share 6 beautiful grandchildren,Thatcher, Piper, Emmery, Weston, Oliver, and Levi, who were truly his pride and joy. He leaves behind so many dear friends who will miss his humor, guidance, and warm care. His bright smile will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.