HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Thursday marked a tragic loss for the Hawai'i Island community as multiple government officials announced the sudden passing of 61-year-old Representative Mark Nakashima.
Nakashima was a dedicated servant who represented Hāmākua, a portion of Hilo and Kaūmana.
"He was a gentle yet fierce advocate for the residents of Hawai‘i, and we honor his memory and his contributions to our community and state," explained Governor Josh Green, M.D.
To honor Nakashima, Governor Green, ordered both the United States and Hawaiʻi state flags to be flown at half-staff at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol, all state offices and agencies and the Hawaiʻi National Guard from sunrise on Friday, July 12 to sunset Monday, July 15.
Representative Nakashima’s legacy of service, dedication to education and commitment to sustainable energy will continue to inspire us all.
Governor Josh Green M.D.
Some may remember Nakashima from his days at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa where he graduated with his "B.Ed. degree and a professional diploma in education, with an emphasis in political science."
“We have been close friends ever since attending UH Mānoa together. Mark was not only a strong advocate for his constituents but also a champion for medical access and equality in our rural communities,” acting Governor Sylvia Luke said.
He will not just be remembered for his accomplishments in office, but for who he was as a leader.
Not only did he advocate for the Hawaii Island community, he was always thinking of ways to better the state. One of his visions included breaking the state's dependence on imported oil by developing geothermal energy statewide.
Senate President Ronald D. Kouchi -- D, Kaua‘i, Ni‘ihau -- described Nakashima as "an unselfish public servant, who will be remembered for his wry sense of humor, easygoing manner."