Michael “Buddy” McGuire (1940-2022) was a devoted Hawaiian waterman, navigator, and cultural ambassador with a rich heritage of Hawaiian, Chinese, Irish, and Greek roots. Born to Allan John McGuire and Mary Ann Vamvas McGuire, Buddy was raised in Maunalua, Oʻahu, where he developed a lifelong passion for the ocean through surfing, fishing, and diving in Maunalua Bay. He maintained deep ties to his community, making lifelong friendships with his Portlock gang and actively participating in local life as an adult.

Buddy graduated from Punahou School in 1958, later studying at Cal State University, Long Beach. His dedication to his alma mater was evident in his roles as president of the Punahou Alumni Association and founding member of the Imu Gang Emeritus, which earned him the esteemed Old School Award. He also established a respected career as a labor relations specialist, founding his firm, McGuire & Associates, and serving Hawaiʻi’s industries for over 30 years.

His connection to Hōkūleʻa and the Polynesian Voyaging Society (PVS) began in 1977 with a chance encounter at the Honolulu airport, leading to his involvement in preparing Hōkūleʻa for its second voyage to Tahiti. This journey marked the beginning of a 40-year commitment to Hōkūleʻa’s mission of cultural preservation and education. Buddy saw Hōkūleʻa as more than a voyaging canoe; it was a vessel for reclaiming and sharing the history of Polynesian navigation. Reflecting on his years with Hōkūleʻa, he spoke about its deeper purpose in connecting Hawaiian people with their heritage and sharing that knowledge with the world. He was especially proud of the Mālama Honua voyage, which expanded Hōkūleʻa’s impact by connecting cultures in their shared commitment to ocean preservation.

Buddy’s cultural dedication extended to his community and family. He served as a kupuna and board member at the Kānehūnamoku Voyaging Academy, sharing his knowledge with the next generation of voyagers. He was also a senior member of Mamaka ‘Aialo, a group dedicated to perpetuating Hawaiian food customs, and he deeply cherished Hawaiian music and traditions.

His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, through his contributions to Hawaiian culture, and in the ocean he so dearly loved.