Howard Maetani

In Loving Memory of Howard Hidemi Maetani

November 9, 1947 - January 7, 2024

Howard Hidemi Maetani, 76, passed away on January 7, 2024, in Orem, Utah, after a short but strong fight against cancer. His last hours were spent surrounded by loving family who meant the world to him. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed member of the community. His unwavering dedication to family, community, and faith will forever remain an inspiration to all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Howard was born on November 9, 1947, in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Herbert and Jean Maetani. As an only child, he grew up with a strong sense of family, community, and a deep appreciation for his Japanese heritage. After graduating from McKinley High School, Howard attended The Church College of Hawaii, now Brigham Young University - Hawaii. While there, he became a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served as a missionary in the Japan Northern Far East Mission and the Japan Central Mission, sharing his faith and love with others.

Upon his return, he graduated with distinction and, more importantly, met the love of his life, Vicki Lynne Inouye. They were married and sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on September 1, 1972. The newlyweds then moved to Utah, where he continued his studies at Brigham Young University and furthered his legal aspirations at Brigham Young University Law School, chartering the Class of 1976.

Howard proudly served his country in the U.S Military Intelligence and National Guard while completing his undergraduate and juris doctorate degrees. His commitment to public service extended beyond his military service, as he later became a respected District Court Judge in Utah's 4th District, presiding over cases in Utah, Wasatch, Juab, and Millard counties. He remained dedicated to upholding the principles of justice, making a lasting impact on the community he served, until his retirement in 2010.

Retirement gave Howard the freedom to continue to serve his church faithfully, embarking on two senior missions with his wife, in the Asia North Area Public Affairs Mission and again six months later as the Asia North Area Executive Secretary. He constantly searched for ways to serve others, including his role as an MTC (Missionary Training Center) Branch President, Bishop's counselor, and various leadership positions.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life. An avid reader, he delighted in exploring new realms of literature and knowledge. He led an active lifestyle, enjoying bowling, walking, and engaging in games of pickleball. With a fondness for Japanese cuisine and the warmth of his native Hawaiian roots, his love for cultural traditions was deeply cherished.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife of 51 wonderful years, Vicki Maetani, and his five devoted children, Valynne Maetani (Jacob Jenkins), Todd Maetani (Cristi), Troy Maetani (Kirsten), Kristen Maetani (Mitchel Bingham), and Ashley Maetani (Tanner Bean). His nineteen adoring grandchildren were a source of immense pride and joy in his life.

The Maetani family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors, nurses, hospital staff, and Valeo hospice care workers who cared for him so kindly and lovingly.

A Funeral Service to honor and celebrate Howard's life will be held on January 19, 2024, at 11:00 am at the Heatheridge Stake Center, 450 East 2000 North, Orem, Utah. Prior to the service, a public viewing will take place at the same location at 9:45 am to 10:45 am, providing an opportunity for friends and loved ones to pay their final respects.

Following the service, Howard will be laid to rest with military honors at the Salt Lake City Cemetery on January 20, 2024, at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the American Cancer Society or to the charity of your choice in Howard's memory.

Aloha 'Oe, Howard. Until we meet again.

Please click on the link below to watch Howard's funeral service via live stream:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82275544294?pwd=QzJvSzdWNnE1NmhBVW1KeEdpLzdCUT09