Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole: The Untold Story of Israel IZ’s Beloved Wife

When people hear the name Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole, they often think of his gentle voice singing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” His music touched hearts all around the world. But behind this legendary voice was a woman who stood by him through everything—Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole.

While Israel’s songs became famous across the globe, Marlene chose a quiet life. Many fans know little about her. But her story is full of love, sacrifice, strength, and quiet beauty. In this article, we’ll gently explore her journey—before and after her marriage to IZ, her family life, her challenges, and where she is today.

Let’s take a closer look at the untold story of Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole.

Who Is Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole?

Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole, born Marlene Ah Lo in 1962, is a Native Hawaiian woman from Honolulu, Hawaii. She is best known as the wife of late singer and Hawaiian icon Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole.

Even though she became known through her husband, Marlene has her own strong and inspiring story. She lived a private life, away from fame and the spotlight, even while being married to a world-famous musician.

Today, people remember her not just as Israel’s wife, but as a caring mother, a loving grandmother, and a woman who quietly carried her family through both joyful and hard times.

Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole’s Early Life and Background

Marlene was born and raised in Honolulu, when Hawaii was still a U.S. territory. She grew up surrounded by Hawaiian culture, music, and traditions.

From a young age, Marlene had a love for dancing. She became a hula dancer and performed in places like Honolulu, Tokyo, Idaho, and Omaha. Her talent and grace made her stand out.

But details about her early family life are mostly private. She has never shared much about her parents or siblings, and that’s something she has chosen to keep personal.

How Marlene Met Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole

Marlene met Israel when she was just 14 years old. At that time, he was already playing music in a band, and she was dancing hula. They both loved Hawaiian culture, and that helped them connect deeply.

One day, Israel looked at her and said, “I’m going to marry you one day.” At first, Marlene laughed. But his words stayed with her. He even told her mother that he would marry her someday.

Years later, when Marlene was 20, Israel proposed—and this time, she said yes. Their love story began with music, friendship, and a sweet promise.

Beautiful Wedding of Marlene and IZ

On September 18, 1982, Marlene and Israel tied the knot at Ka Makua Mau Loa Church in Kalihi, Hawaii. It was supposed to be a small celebration with 500 guests, but over 1,000 people showed up!

Israel had told everyone to come, and they did. Marlene shared that her parents even had to take a second mortgage on their house to help pay for the big celebration. That’s how big and loved Israel was—even back then.

Despite the chaos, it was a day full of joy, music, dancing, and community spirit. It truly reflected the couple’s roots and the love that surrounded them.

Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole’s Life as a Hula Dancer

Before marriage, Marlene had performed hula in many places and was proud of her dancing career. But things changed after she married Israel.

One day, Israel told her, “There is only room for one entertainer.” Marlene knew what that meant—she had to let go of her dreams. So, she quietly gave up her dancing career to support his musical path.

Still, she never lost her love for dance. In fact, during one of Israel’s performances, he called her on stage to dance while he sang. It was a rare and beautiful moment, showing their deep connection and respect for each other’s talents.

Challenges in Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole’s Marriage

Marriage to a famous artist wasn’t always easy. Marlene often spoke about the difficulties she faced, especially in the first years.

While she worked during the day, Israel would sometimes go out at night and not return until morning. He loved music, but he also loved partying. “Years of that used to drive me nuts,” Marlene once said.

She would sometimes take their daughter and stay with her mother for weeks or even months. “I wanted out so many times,” she admitted. But despite the pain and stress, she stayed and tried to hold the family together.

They even lived separately for a while. But when Israel had a heart attack, they reconnected. Marlene began visiting him regularly, helping care for him as his health declined.

Marlene and Her Daughter Wehi

In 1983, Marlene and Israel welcomed their only child, Ceslie-Ann “Wehi” Kamakawiwoʻole. Marlene was a loving and strong mother, especially after Israel’s passing.

Wehi later had four children of her own. Marlene adopted two of them and continues to help raise her grandchildren in Pearl City.

Wehi once said that even though her kids never met their grandfather, they know his songs by heart. They also share a love for music—especially the ukulele—just like their grandfather.

How Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole Coped After Israel’s Death

In June 1997, Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwoʻole passed away at just 38 years old. He had been struggling with serious health problems, including heart and lung issues. His body couldn’t take the weight and pain anymore.

Marlene was only 33 when she lost him. It was a heartbreaking time. But instead of falling apart, she stayed strong—for her daughter, for her family, and for the memory of her husband. She didn’t chase fame or give interviews. She simply went back to a quiet life.

Even now, many people say she never remarried. She focused on being a mother and grandmother. That shows just how strong and loving she really is.

Where Is Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole Now?

As of 2025, Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole lives in Pearl City, Hawaii. She keeps her life very private and doesn’t use social media. You won’t find her on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

But every now and then, photos of her pop up online—often shared by her family. These rare photos show that she is still healthy, smiling, and surrounded by her grandkids. It’s clear she finds peace in her family and Hawaiian roots.

She is known to be a quiet woman who loves her privacy. But those who know her say she’s also warm, kind, and full of aloha.

The Legacy Israel Left Behind for Marlene and Family

Even after his death, Israel Kamakawiwoʻole’s music lives on. His songs are still played around the world in movies, TV shows, and commercials.

You may have heard his beautiful voice in films like 50 First Dates, Meet Joe Black, Finding Forrester, and TV shows like ER and Scrubs. His most famous song, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World,” continues to bring smiles and tears to people all over the world.

Marlene and her daughter Wehi receive royalties from Israel’s music. That money helps them live comfortably. His legacy has become a gift that keeps giving—something that supports his family even now.

Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole’s Net Worth and Private Life

Because of the money Israel left behind and the ongoing music royalties, Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole’s net worth is said to be around $3 million. She didn’t build her wealth from fame, but from love, patience, and years of standing beside a legend.

Marlene never started a new career after his passing. She didn’t become a public figure or chase the spotlight. Instead, she chose a quiet and peaceful life—caring for her grandchildren, staying close to home, and living simply.

Even though she’s not in the public eye, her name is always remembered when people talk about Israel. And that’s because her role in his life was so meaningful.

Final Thoughts

Marlene Kamakawiwoʻole may not be a singer, but she helped hold up one of the most beloved voices in Hawaiian history. Her love, her strength, and her sacrifices gave Israel the space to share his gift with the world.

She was a dancer, a wife, a mother, and now a proud grandmother. Through everything—good times and hard times—Marlene chose love, family, and peace.

Many people may only know her as “IZ’s wife,” but her story is worth telling too. She is a big part of the legacy he left behind, and her journey is just as beautiful.