In Remembrance: Lester Naito

Dr. Naito with Tomi, a chihuahua-terrier.
Photo by Craig T. Kojima

Lester Naito graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1959 and opened his 1st clinic in 1963, Animal Clinic Waimalu, followed by Animal Clinic Mililani, Moanalua, Waipahu, and Kapolei. These clinics are now VCA Animal Hospitals.

Dr. Naito studied for two years as a pre-med major at Marquette University in Milwaukee. He chose to further his education at OSU because the pre-veterinary requirements closely matched his pre-med course work.

He and his wife Grace have 4 kids, Steven, Joanne, Scott and Leslie.


I will always be grateful to Doctor Lester Naito for giving me the opportunity to gain experience and grow in the profession as a beginning veterinarian.  By example, he kept his optimism even during difficult circumstance.  His foresight and support were instrumental in developing my own professional vision .   Through the years his life touched many of us as employees, pet owners and friends.  Les will be missed.
– Dr. Isaac Maeda