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Hawaii Rep. Mark Nakashima, Longtime Public Servant, Dies at 61

In his 16-year career in the House, the former public school teacher was committed to education and sustainable energy.

By Uyen Vong  |  July 12, 2024
Mark Nakashima Hawaii
Nakashima

Hawaii Rep. Mark Nakashima died Thursday in Honolulu. He was 61.

“Mark served his community and our state with dignity and respect,” House Speaker Scott Saiki said. “He will be missed.”

A former public school teacher and education advocate, Nakashima made the transition from teaching to elected office in 2008 when he won House District 1 to represent Hāmākua, portion of Hilo, and Kaūmana on the Big Island.

Nakashima was a proponent for the development of geothermal energy to advance the state’s clean energy goals. As chair of the Committee on Labor and Public Employment, he helped raise Hawaii’s minimum wage.

“Rep. Nakashima’s legacy of service, dedication to education, and commitment to sustainable energy will continue to inspire us all. He was a gentle yet fierce advocate for the residents of Hawaii, and we honor his memory and his contributions to our community and state,” Gov. Josh Green said in a statement.

Green ordered the U.S. and Hawaii flags flown at half-staff effective from today through Monday in recognition of Nakashima’s “unwavering service.”

Nakashima dedicated his time to helping local organizations such as the Hāmākua Lions Club, U.S.-Japan Council and Hawaii State Jaycees.

“Rep. Nakashima was an unselfish public servant who will be remembered for his wry sense of humor, easygoing manner, and establishing the benchmark in dealing with life’s adversities with quiet strength and resilience,” Senate President Ron Kouchi said in a press release.

Nakashima is survived by his mother, Betty Nakashima, sister Sandra Jakob, wife Yvette Lee-Nakashima and stepchildren Royce Hirai and Loryn Hirai.

Uyen Vong is NCSL’s associate director of public affairs.

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