Bold headline: A beloved Hawaii architect passes away, leaving a lasting imprint on the islands’ architectural identity.
A renowned Hawaii-based architect, whose work helped define Hawaii’s modern architectural landscape, has died. Francis S. Oda passed away on Saturday, February 14, surrounded by his family.
Oda was a founding partner of the design firm G70 in 1971, and his career earned him more than 50 awards for projects that include the Four Seasons Lodge at Koele, Four Seasons Manele Bay Hotel, Hanauma Bay Nature Center, and the Nanea Golf Clubhouse. Beyond individual buildings, he played a pivotal role in shaping major master plans and design guidelines for key Hawaii developments, notably the City of Kapolei, the University of Hawaii Long Range Development Program, Kanu o ka Aina, and the Kaiaulu o Kakaako Masterplan for Kamehameha Schools.
His influence extended internationally as well, with projects in French Polynesia, Mauritius, and British Columbia, Canada. He was honored with the American Institute of Architects Honor Award for Our Divine Savior Church in Chico, California. Oda held a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University and earned a Doctor of Architecture from the University of Hawaii, where he later served as an adjunct associate professor and helped develop the university’s Doctor of Architecture program.
Linda Miki, CEO of G70, remembered him as a mentor, a spiritual father, and a constant source of inspiration for everyone who had the privilege to collaborate with him. In addition to his architectural work, Oda served as a senior pastor and chaired the board of New Life Church Honolulu.
A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, April 25, at First Assembly of God – Red Hill, Moanalua.
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