Singer, musician, entertainer and kumu hula Edward W. Ogawa, known to most as "Uncle Eddie," died Nov. 22 at St. Francis Hospice in Nuuanu. He was 82.

Born in April 1929 to Mary Nobriga and Jack Tokichi Ogawa of Kaneohe, Ogawa was the youngest of eight siblings. Since childhood he had been performing with his sister, Kanoe Lum, and brother, John Keene.

Ogawa’s music career began in the 1940s. Over six decades he provided backup singing for many headliners, including Alfred Apaka, Danny Kaleikini, Auntie Genoa Keawe, Lena Machado, Don Ho, George Na’ope, the Bee Sisters and Uncle George Holokai.

Ogawa taught himself to play the piano by ear and had an amazingly smooth falsetto, according to former student, nephew and kumu hula Kaipo Kurch. He continued to perform until just about a year ago before he first became ill.

Ogawa learned hula from Iolani Luahine, Joe Kahaulelio and Maiki Aiu. He was the choreographer for many shows throughout Waikiki and at officers’ clubs on military bases during the 1960s.

"He was very much behind the scenes," said Ishmael Stagner, author of "Kumu Hula: Roots and Branches," adding that Ogawa had an outstanding falsetto. "He was one of those many people working quietly in the background, yet made the Hawaiian music and renaissance possible. Without him there would never have been one."

Because of his rapport and love for people, Ogawa began managing and promoting nightspots on Oahu as well, including prime venues of the past such as Honey’s, the Rice Bowl in Kaneohe and Elsie’s Club Polynesia on Hotel Street.

In the 1990s Ogawa managed two nightclubs (now closed) named after him: Uncle’s Place on Beretania Street in Moiliili and Uncle’s Place II on Kalakaua Avenue.

"Uncle was one of those monumental people," said Kurch. "A true gift from God, a source of brilliant light. Some of us were able, even if for a moment, to have that light shine upon us. … There are many who have contributed to Hawaiian music and the culture closely associated with it, but Uncle Eddie’s talent, aloha and quiet stewardship of things Hawaiian will be greatly missed. "

Ogawa is survived by caregiver Edward "Kauka" Borges; sons David, Darryl and Darvyn Ogawa; grandchildren and great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Ogawa’s life will be held, followed by Mass with his ashes, from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 16 at St. Augustine Church Waikiki. Aloha attire, flowers and lei are welcome.