Local real estate developer Herbert K. Horita, whose projects spanning a half century included Oahu’s Royal Kunia subdivision and the Ko Olina Resort & Marina, has died.

Horita, 80, died peacefully on Monday surrounded by family at home, according to a family representative.

The developer built more than 13,000 single-family homes and condominiums on Oahu and Maui in communities such as Newtown Estates, Royal Summit and Village Park.

Horita was born in Honolulu, and got his start in the residential real estate business working for his father’s construction company, S. Horita Construction. Horita sold his first home in 1957 working for his father, and two years later formed Herbert K. Horita Realty Inc. in Kalihi.

The Building Industry Association of Hawaii in 2007 inducted Horita into the trade group’s Hall of Fame.

"Herbert’s considerable foresight in the location, design and construction of his residential and commercial projects have impacted the lives of thousands of Hawaii residents," the group said.

Horita is survived by seven children and 13 grandchildren. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Memorial services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Newtown on Jan. 4, 2011. Open viewing will be from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Services begin at 5:00 p.m.