My best memory of him was in a Hula Bowl game at Honolulu Stadium in the late 60's or early 70's. The ball was on the Ewa side of the field. Some guy in his 20's ran out onto the field, stole the ball and started running toward the Diamond Head endzone. Everyone was stunned and just watched except Galdeira. Galdeira who was in his mid-40s chased the guy for 50 yards and tackled him near the endzone. It was all on national TV.
http://starbulletin.com/breaking/breaking.php?id=4134
Posted on: Friday, January 27, 2006 11:54 AM HST
Hall of fame referee Earl Galdeira dies
Dave Reardon
dreardon@starbulletin.com
College football hall-of-famer Earl Galdeira, who refereed hundreds of football games in Hawaii, including 28 Hula Bowls, died today at age 79.
Galdeira suffered a series of strokes three years ago and never fully recovered, his wife, Frances, said.
The Honolulu resident was inducted into the National Football Foundation College Hall of Fame in 1996 for officiating.
He remained active in the community after retirement from Hawaiian Tel, serving as president of the Honolulu Quarterback Club, a member of the Hawaiian Homes Commission, and a boardmember of the Honolulu Parks and Recreation department.