HONOLULU – Hawai‘i design firm G70 announces with deep sadness the passing of one of its founders, Francis S. Oda, who went home to be with the Lord on February 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife Caroline and children, Reid and Nalani. G70 extends its deepest sympathy to the Oda family and honors Francis’s immense contributions to the firm, the profession and the broader community.
A visionary architect, planner and leader, Francis guided G70 for more than 50 years. His work helped shape Hawai‘i’s built environment and reflected his deep respect for culture, community and place. Over the course of his career, he mentored generations of professionals whose work continues to reflect his values of excellence, humility and service.
“Francis was more than one of our founders — he was a mentor, spiritual father, and source of inspiration for everyone who had the privilege of working with him,” said Linda Miki, CEO of G70. “His legacy lives on in our G70 Ohana, our projects and our commitment to serving Hawai‘i and beyond with integrity and care.”
Over the course of his career, Francis received more than 50 design awards, including the American Institute of Architects Honor Award for Our Divine Savior Church in Chico, California. In 2014, he was honored by Pacific Business News as Hawaii Business Leader of the Year. His award-winning projects include the Four Seasons Lodge at Koele, the Four Seasons Manele Bay Hotel, Hanauma Bay Nature Center, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, and the Nanea Golf Clubhouse.
Francis was also instrumental in envisioning major master plans and design guidelines for the City of Kapolei, University of Hawai‘i Long Range Development Program, Kanu o ka ‘Āina and Kamehameha Schools Kaiaulu o Kaka’ako Masterplan. Internationally, he designed impactful projects such as Bora Bora Resort, French Polynesia, Roches Noires Smart City, Mauritius, Place Jacques Chirac, Papeete, French Polynesia and Heaven’s Gate Fernie, British Columbia, Canada.
Francis was a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects and a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners. He was designated a Manoa Forum Fellow by the University of Hawai‘i, received the Gordon Bradley Humanitarian Award and was inducted into the Hawaii Business Hall of Fame.
Francis earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University and a Doctor of Architecture from the University of Hawai‘i. He was an Adjunct Associate Professor of the UH School of Architecture and a Distinguished Alumnus of the University where he developed the Doctor of Architecture program. He was also a Senior Pastor and Board Chair of New Life Church Honolulu and served as Global Chair of Transform Our World.
Francis’ Celebration of Life Service
First Assembly of God – Red Hill, Moanalua
Saturday, April 25, 2026
11am – Visitation / Viewing
12pm – Celebration of Life Service begins
Additional information will be shared here as it becomes available. We sincerely appreciate your partnership and support during this time.
About G70
Established in 1971, G70 is Hawai‘i’s leading multi-discipline design firm specializing in architecture, interior design, civil engineering, planning and environment. G70 is deeply invested in understanding and perpetuating the cultural and historical resonance of every place it touches. With a mission to create hope for future generations, G70’s diverse team of entrepreneurial and highly creative individuals aspire to contribute to the betterment of lives and places in Hawai‘i and across the Pacific. For more information, visit www.g70.design.