Sterling Cale, last Pearl Harbor survivor living in Hawaii, dies at 102:
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2. Last survivor of Pearl Harbor in Hawaii.

Sterling Cale, Last Pearl Harbor Survivor in Hawaii, Passes Away at 102

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Sterling Cale, the last Pearl Harbor survivor living in Hawaii, has died, his family announced Wednesday. He was 102.

Cale, a brave and honorable veteran, passed away on Jan. 20 at his Aiea home, surrounded by his loving family. His death marks the end of an era, as he was the last living survivor of the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor.

An Incredible Life of Service

Sterling Cale lived an incredible life, dedicating himself to serving his country with bravery and honor in three wars. His family expressed their deep sorrow and shared their memories of a man who made a significant impact on the lives of many.

“We will miss him so much, but we take comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with his beloved wife Victoria, who passed away five years ago. She was the love of his life,” the Cale family said in a statement.

A Hero’s Legacy

Sterling Cale’s story touched the lives of thousands of visitors at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. He often shared his harrowing experiences with both civilians and service members, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of listening to his firsthand accounts.

On the day Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, Sterling Cale, then a 20-year-old hospital pharmacist mate assigned to the U.S. Naval Hospital, found himself in the midst of chaos. With his training as a Navy diver, he swam through burning water to rescue the bodies of 46 sailors from the sinking battleships.

Cale’s courage and determination were further showcased as he spent days onboard the USS Arizona, retrieving the remains of over 100 servicemen from the twisted wreckage. His mission was grim, but he understood the importance of serving the people he loved and the nation he cherished.

In an interview with Hawaii News Now in 2020, Cale reflected on his service, saying, “For the benefit of all the people living there, that’s the people that you’re serving. You’re not serving yourself. You’re serving the people that you love.”

A Legacy Remembered

Sterling Cale’s difficult memories of the attack prevented him from visiting the USS Arizona Memorial until 1974, twelve years after its opening. Despite the emotional toll, he continued to serve his country with dedication and received several medals for his service.

In 1942, Sterling married Victoria Vienna Ventula, and together they raised two children, Sterling and Estralita. He retired from government service in 2005 after an impressive 57 years, having served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Aileen Utterdyke, President and CEO of Pacific Historic Parks, expressed deep sadness at the loss of Sterling Cale. “He was a very important person to us and to many others. We wish peace and prayers for the family,” she said.

Final Farewell

Services for Sterling Cale will be held on March 7 at the Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery in Kaneohe, where he will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife Victoria.

As the last Pearl Harbor survivor in Hawaii, Sterling Cale leaves behind a legacy of bravery, honor, and selflessness. His remarkable story will forever be remembered, and his contributions to our nation will never be forgotten.

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