Ex-Maui police chief Joseph Cravalho dead at 65
By Christie Wilson
Neighbor Island Editor
KAHULUI, Maui — Former Maui police chief Joseph C. Cravalho, 65, died Monday at his home in Kahului.
Cravalho joined the Maui County Police Department in 1959 and was named chief in 1981. He retired seven years later.
Joseph Cravalho served in the Maui Police Department from 1959 to 1988, including seven years as chief.
Police Chief Tom Phillips said Cravalho oversaw the police force during a time of rapid growth in the department and in the community. One big change during his tenure was the department's move from outmoded, overcrowded facilities into modern quarters on Mahalani Street.
But if Cravalho was known for anything, it was his professional demeanor and caring, Phillips said.
"He was very smart and had a real big heart. I never saw him lose his temper. He was very calm all the time and had a very professional appearance, and I think we all learned from that," he said. "He really cared for his employees, not just on the job but for their families."
Following his retirement, Cravalho was branch manager for Wackenhut of Hawai'i from 1991 to 1999. He was involved in the Boy Scouts of America and Boy Builders, and served on the Governor's Committee on Crime.
He was born Sept. 11, 1936, in Kula.
Viewing will begin at 9 a.m. tomorrow at St. Anthony Church in Wailuku, with a Mass at 1 p.m. Burial will be at 2 p.m. at Maui Memorial Park. Ballard Family Mortuary is assisting with the arrangements.
Cravalho is survived by his wife, Germaine; sons Stephen Smith of Wailuku and Karl Cravalho of Honolulu; daughters Shelly Wagner of Hilo, Wanda Logan of Kihei and Jo Ann Singfield of San Diego; brothers Frank of Texas, and Harmon and Clarence of O'ahu; sisters Judy Montalvo of Makawao and Betty Jean Mendiola of O'ahu; and seven grandchildren.
