Augusto Carlos Valdes Camara III, son of Dr. Jorge Camara and wife, Binky Camara, died Friday.

He was 27.

"He had an amazing way of lighting up a room when he walked into it," his father, a prominent ophthalmologist, said last night. "When he spoke to someone, he let that person know he cared deeply. He helped that person to open up."

Augusto was born in Houston. His family moved to Hawai'i when he was 3.

He attended Iolani School, then went to Punahou for high school.

Augusto graduated from the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, majoring in pre-medicine and anthropology.

He taught in Fukuoka, Japan, for three years, then returned to Honolulu.

He was studying law at the University of Hawai'i William S. Richardson School of Law and died at his parents' home in Diamond Head.

His favorite activities included performing standup comedy, surfing, playing golf and spending time with family and friends.

Family members said he was known for his sense of humor, sensitivity to others and desire to help the community through a career in law.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his uncle, Ricky Camara; godfather Johnny Valdes; and aunts Chona Mercado, Teri Valdes and Regina Lim, as well as many other friends and family members.

He is the grandson of Dr. Augusto Camara, an eminent Filipino cardiologist and Carlos Valdes, a prominent Philippine ambassador, and was named after both men.

A memorial service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Star of the Sea Catholic Church, with reception to follow. Aloha attire.

Reach Karen Blakeman at kblakeman@honoluluadvertiser.com.