In Loving Memory of Catherine “Cathey” Tarleton (August 5, 1954 – February 11, 2025)

Waikoloa, HI – It is with a very heavy heart that I share the sad news our dear friend and colleague, Cathey Tarleton, passed away peacefully in her sleep during the early hours of Tuesday morning. Cathey and her husband, Dwight, have been our dear family friends for over 30 years. She was my oldest friend, my lifelong confidante, and my biggest supporter. Her sudden passing has left a void that words can scarcely begin to describe.

Cathey began her hospitality career in the late 1970s, working at the renowned resort, Caneel Bay, in St. John, USVI. As part of the RockResort collection, Cathey was given the opportunity of transfering to a legendary property on the Big Island of Hawaii. She spent the next thirty years of her career working at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, starting as the executive assistant to managing director Adi W. Kohler, and eventually retired from the resort as Director of Public Relations. In her “retirement,” Cathey would author several books, consult Hawaii-based businesses on marketing and public relations, volunteer in her local community and also strategically support our efforts to launch Majestic Hospitality Group.

Life has a funny way of bringing extraordinary people into our universe. My family were frequent visitors to Mauna Kea and Adi’s wife, Cha Cha, brought her into my life. From the moment we met, Cathy’s warmth, laughter, and boundless aloha embraced me. She welcomed me into her life with open arms, both personally and professionally. Cathy’s unwavering belief in me was transformative. She saw potential in me even when I was just a young boy at Mauna Kea, spending hours at her desk dreaming of building grand hotels. She encouraged those dreams, guiding me with her wisdom and love. I would not be on this incredible life voyage without her steady and inspiring hand.

There are not enough words in English or Hawaiian that can adequately convey my gratitude for all she has given me.The hugs, the laughter, and the love that Cathy shared were gifts I will cherish forever. She taught me the true meaning of aloha – to live with kindness, generosity, and an open heart. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and the dreams she nurtured.

Cathy, you were more than a mentor and friend; you were family. Rest in peace, dear Cathy. I know you will be watching over your ‘ohana from the starship above, and your light will continue to guide us. A hui hou, until we meet again. ❤️