'Iolani School has lost a great man, who possessed a heart of gold and a perpetual smile. Longtime coach Clem Hew passed on May 6 at Kuakini Medical Center at the age of 77. 
He began coaching at 'Iolani in 1963. One of his former baseball players was Headmaster Dr. Val Iwashita '67. More recently, Coach Hew was on the staff of this past season's baseball team. Coach Hew also coached softball and football in different levels for decades.
Away from the athletic field, Coach Hew also touched countless lives. He was instrumental in the success of the 'Iolani carnival and, later, the fair. He lent his expertise to firing up the imu from which came the most ono kalua pig. And he faithfully added extra aloha to the Hawaiian plates served at the fair every year.
At the annual 'Iolani athletic awards assembly last May, Coach Hew was recognized for his lifetime contributions to 'Iolani's One Team spirit. He received a standing ovation.
At the awards assembly, students shared this: "With a coaching career that spans five decades, Coach Hew has coached both boys and girls, fathers and their sons, fathers and their daughters, ILH and state champions, over achievers, players who are current coaches, professional baseball players, collegiate softball players, and he has done it all with a firm hand and a soft heart.
"Coach Hew is an old school coach who has withstood the test of time. He has adapted to coaching the athlete of this generation, without compromising his core values. 'Iolani is lucky and owes a great debt of gratitude to Coach Hew."
He is survived by his wife Jeannette, son Clem Jr. '75, daughter Shandra, and grandchildren. Services will be held on Saturday, May 17 in St. Alban's Chapel at 'Iolani School. Visitation from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.. Memorial service from 11 a.m. to noon. Parking available in the Kamoku Street structure.
