South Bend family pays tribute to lost loved one

A family is paying tribute to a loved one. Two years ago, 45-year-old George Lealiifano died after a car accident.

Since then his family has gotten together, the best way they know how, by putting together a luau and this year will be the last.

Kathy Kennach, George’s wife says they have accomplished everything that he set out to do.

“It's time to you know kind of close the chapter and move onto the next one,” says Kennach.

George’s luau started 13 years ago in hopes of bringing the island culture to south bend. According to family, he wanted to prove that people of all backgrounds could come together and have a good time without drama and without trouble.

Since then, the luau has grown bringing as much as 500 people together.

Kennach says throughout this time she has learned one huge lesson. “Unity. I think that has brought everyone together whether it be the community or the family and friends it taught us how to work together toward something.”

To attend, it’s $15 per person, prices for children vary.