‘Lilo & Stitch’ actor David Hekili Kenui Bell passes away
David Hekili Kenui Bell, who appeared in the live-action Lilo & Stitch movie as the Big Hawaiian Dude, has passed away, his half-sister confirmed on a Facebook post.
"It is with a heavy heart I share that my sweet, generous, talented, funny, brilliant, and handsome little brother David H. K. Bell will spend today in the company of our Heavenly Father," Jalene Kanani Bell wrote on her June 16 post.
Jalene described her brother as the “joy of a human, and Prince of a Man.”
“I met my little brother at the age of 18, on my high school graduation day, it was the most amazing surprise which I had been asking for for years, that our mom's made happen for us, and that gift has lasted a lifetime,” she continued.
"While I didn’t grow up with a Father, David gave me all the unconditional love I could possibly ask for and I believe that all his family and friends received the same from him," she added.
The Hawai'i police confirmed with PEOPLE Magazine that the actor passed away on June 12 at 2:26 p.m. The investigation into his death is ongoing, but they noted that no foul play is suspected.
"We have launched a coroner’s inquest investigation and an autopsy is being scheduled to determine the exact cause of death," a police spokesperson told the outlet.
“Hug your loved ones today," Jalene wrote. "Our last time together after returning home from the movie was just sitting on my living room couch talking story about life, having a seltzer and doing a little genealogy. Blessed by this and all the big and small moments, I will keep our memories alive.”
Meanwhile, Brittney Kealoha, mom of Maia Kealoha (the young actress behind Lilo in the film), posted a tribute on social media.
"Eh Uncle David, save some shave ice for me too k?! Maia is surely going to miss telling you that. Rest in love," she wrote in a caption. "In Hawai’i calling someone uncle, auntie, tutu (grandma) etc. when they are not blood related is a sign of respect. David was that to Maia, he was just like one of her uncles and treated her like his own ohana. David I’m so proud of you and happy for all that you accomplished in this life. You definitely made your mark around the world. A hui hou friend, love the Kealoha ohana."
Bell was a Screen Actors Guild member. Apart from Lilo & Stitch live-adaptation, he also appeared in shows Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I. He also did commercials for local pub Kona Brewing and worked behind the PA systems at Kona Airport.
