(BIVN) – State Representative Mark Nakashima has passed away, and flags will be flown at half-staff across Hawaiʻi this weekend in honor of the lawmaker from House District 1. 

UPDATE – (July 12th) – Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth offered the following statement on Friday:

It is with profound sadness that we learn of Rep. Nakashima’s passing. Mark was a great man who dedicated the last 16 years of his life to serving the people of North Hilo and the entire Hawaiʻi Island community. His humble demeanor and fierce advocacy were instrumental in securing funding for numerous projects over the years, including the recent $50 million expansion of the Hilo Benioff Medical Center. This project alone will help ensure the health and well-being of our local families for generations to come. Mark will always be remembered for his ability to smile through the toughest circumstances and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones as they cope with this tremendous loss.

The Office of Governor Josh Green provided this statement on Thursday:

Governor Josh Green, M.D., has ordered that the United States flag and the Hawaiʻi state flag be flown at half-staff at the Hawaiʻi State Capitol and at all state offices and agencies as well as the Hawaiʻi National Guard in the state of Hawaiʻi, effective from sunrise on Friday, July 12, to sunset on Monday, July 15, in recognition of the unwavering service of Representative Mark Nakashima.

Representative Nakashima, a dedicated public servant, represented House District 1 (Hāmākua, a portion of Hilo and Kaūmana). His commitment to the community and the state of Hawaiʻi was evident in his work and leadership.

A former educator, Representative Nakashima understood the critical importance of evaluating program budget requests and setting criteria for the evaluation of appropriations. His vision included the development of geothermal energy statewide as a solution to break the state’s dependence on imported oil. He also worked tirelessly to create synergy between the Big Island community, public schools, and institutions of higher learning, fostering collaboration and guiding long-term decision-making and future expenditures.

Representative Nakashima was a graduate of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, holding a B.Ed. degree and a professional diploma in education, with an emphasis in political science.

“Representative Nakashima’s legacy of service, dedication to education and commitment to sustainable energy will continue to inspire us all,” said Governor Green. “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.”

“I’m heartbroken about the news of Mark’s passing. 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. I will miss him dearly and send my prayers and aloha to his loved ones during this time,” said acting Governor Sylvia Luke.