The Bear Condo History

Bob and Louise Bear came to Maui in the early 1970’s. Bob was a hybrid corn breeder and owner of Bear Hybrid Corn Co. in Illinois. He came to Maui in order to grow an extra season of research hybrids which reduced the time for development of new hybrids to the farmer from 10 years to 5 years. 

His research fields were just up the road from here, about where the intersection of Piilani highway meets the road to Kahalui. Maalaea Surf was a great location because he could walk to the fields every day. Bob and Louise were here from November to May so that Bob could be present for pollination and harvest of the research crop. His work continued up the road, until plans for the highway developed, and he moved the research operation to Molokai. You can learn more about Bear Hybrid Corn Co. in a pamphlet about “The Three Bears” with the books. 

While Bob was in the field, Louise spent her time learning to hula (see the pictures in the photo book) and quilting. All Hawaiian quilt artifacts in the condo (pillows and wall hangings) are Louise’s work. She signed them “Loube” with the date they were made. 

The whale statue by the credenza was carved by Bob and Louise’s nephew, Rob Clarke. He spent about 6 months on Maui carving several large whale pieces.

Bob also loved to take photographs which you will see throughout the condo. The pictures over the desk in the living room are from sites on Maui, some of which no longer exist because of development. He also took all the pictures that are on the placemats. Many were from their international travels and others are family collages. 

We hope you love Hawaii as much as Bob and Louise did. They are no longer able to travel to this beautiful isle but have many glorious memories of sunsets from the lanai.