HONOLULU (KHON2) — Honolulu Zoo bids a hui hou to one of its zookeepers after 40 years of service.
Dwain “Oki” Uyeda’s career at the Zoo began in 1985, when he first came to work as a high school student doing a work credit program.
His role as the beloved reptile zookeeper kept him busy for the last four decades, from teaching Elton the Crocodile Monitor Lizard to fetch on command to wrangling reptiles.
But before Oki became the zoo’s lizard wizard, he flew through a quick few months in the bird department.
His coworkers said he brought humor, humility and passion every day to work.
“He is someone who jumps in to help others without ever needing to be asked,” said Honolulu Zoo Director Linda Santos. “Oki’s incredible knowledge of animal care and ability to problem-solve made him a huge asset to the team. I already miss his smiling face and wish him well in his new adventures.”
When asked how to describe his time at the Zoo and what kept him going the last four decades, Oki said, “My hope is that you always remember to find the fun in your Zoo. This is your Zoo.”
Oki will be trading in reptiles for retirement and plans to work on classic cars, starting with a vehicle from 1976.