Mits The Man
By Lori Okami
On Saturday I attended the funeral of Mits Kawashima, The Man who lead the way for Hawaii bodybuilders. He opened a professional health studio long before fitness was ever the rave. He created a venue for Hawaii’s best to compete and brought the world’s top bodybuilders as guests. No one else could get Arnold Schwarzenegger here!
But I call Mits “The Man” because he was a leader. He did things that weren’t being done here. He is The Man for being the ultimate example of health and fitness—a man who totally walked the talk. He is The Man who was firm in his convictions and generously gave of himself to help anyone and everyone lead a healthier life, in all aspects. He is The Man because he was a loving and loyal husband and father to Dot and Karen.
I was a weekly visitor to Mits Basic Foods in Manoa. That’s where I got to be friends with Karen, Mits’ daughter. Karen shared the story about how her doctor said that she wouldn’t live to see her adult years and that she’d never have children. Well, of course, Mits wouldn’t have let any of that happen so he loaded her up with vitamins and healthy food. She lived long enough to have two beautiful children and even grandchildren!
He was an amazing man! His life offers us many lessons: 1) of conviction in the way he dedicated his life to improve the health and wellness of everyone he touched, 2) of caring because there wasn’t a sole who sought his guidance that he wouldn’t have helped tirelessly, 3) of positivity because all things were possible to him, 4) of honesty because you could count on him to tell it like it is—whether you want to hear it or not, and 5) live with passion because he was obviously a man who exemplified passion in all he did.
This is my thank you to a wonderful man. I still see his lively smile…hear his recognizable laugh…and feel his powerful influence. You will be greatly missed. Aloha Mits.
*** I invite you to visit my website www.lifefitnet.com and participate in a short online survey that should take only 2-3 minutes to complete. No one’s personal, individual data is ever shared and the aggregated information is used to Build a Healthy Hawaii and better understand individual needs and preferences related to establishing healthy lifestyle habits. Mahalo for your support! 
Lori
Be Strong Live Long
February 27th, 2012 at 11:58 am
I didn't know who he was and Googled him and wow, what an awesome guy. Lucky you knew him.
February 27th, 2012 at 7:42 pm
Yes, Mits truly was a wonderful soul. I often stopped by his store in Manoa during the years I lived there. He always had just what I needed ... even if it was only his great advice or a training tip. In the later years, Karen was a great help as well and shared many of the same attitudes as her father. Aloha 'Oe, Mits!
February 28th, 2012 at 12:32 pm
Interesting factoid about Mom that brought a tear to my eye. You were obviously a dear friend, as I don't think that she shared that info with just anyone. The outpouring of affection across the web is truly humbling.
Thank you.
February 29th, 2012 at 5:39 pm
Hello Haken!
Yes, I consider myself very fortunate. I will share the stories so that those that follow will understand and appreciate the true leaders before us.
Hi Old Timer!
Ah! Did I see you there? Yes, Karen also lived as Mits did--not only listening and offering sound advice but welcoming anyone in need into their ohana. Wonderful people. Great examples.
Hey Ian!
Your mom shared many stories in her very matter-of-fact, 'tell it like it is' way. I miss your mom dearly and still reflect on many of the things she did and said. You come from excellent stock. I know you know how awesome your mom and grandparents all are. We think so too!
Love to all!
Lori
March 15th, 2012 at 3:58 pm
Hey Lori - i was so sad to hear about Mits' passing... i cherished those talk story visits with him at the Manoa store ... always so positive and encouraging
March 21st, 2012 at 8:41 am
Mits and Dot Kawashima were my Hawaiian Mom & Dad. I loved them dearly and owe to them my long career in fitness. Back in the early 1960's while I attended UH, I worked for them at their gym - then on King St. in Honolulu. Under their guidance, I learned the business and also how to promote bodybuilding contests. Later, back on the mainland in Florida, my wife and I opened a real gym...just like Mits' Health Studio...and kept it running for 26 years! I am deeply saddened by Mits' passing...an icon in bodybuilding, and a lovely person. I wrote him recently and really hope he received it. Good-bye Mits...I will miss you terribly!
March 22nd, 2012 at 9:35 pm
Aloha Loa,
Exactly. We all feel the same way. Lucky we had a chance to get to know him.
Hello Mike,
Thank you for sharing.
Live Well,
Lori