Aletha Kawelukawahinehololioolimaloa Goodwin Kaohi, affectionately known as Puna, was born on June 19, 1930, in Paliuli, Waimea-Kauai. The seventh of eight children, she was born to William Kapahukaniolonookainoahou Kani and Margaret Kamala Kamai Goodwin, both were manaleo (native speaker of the Hawaiian language).

Kawelukawahinehololioolimaloa translates to “the woman Kawelu who rides a horse on the shore of Limaloa.” It evokes images of strength, beauty and nature. Puna was her inoa, her name.

Puna lived a long fulfilling life. She has been featured in numerous newspapers and magazines; filmed and recorded; honored and recognized. She was truly humbled by these accolades but her greatest reward occurred on April 9, 2024, when she saddled up for the last time, this side of heaven and rode home to Ke Akua.