State Rep. Mark Nakashima Dead At 61
Hawaii’s governor has ordered flags lowered to honor the House Democrat.
Mark Nakashima, a Democrat who represented Hamakua, a portion of Hilo and Kaumana in the Hawaii House of Representatives, died Thursday in Honolulu.
He was 61. According to his family, Nakashima had a longtime battle with diabetes which led to health complications. In January 2023 he received a kidney transplant.
A former educator, Nakashima was a graduate of the University of Hawaii Manoa and held a bachelor’s degree and professional diploma in education with an emphasis in political science.
He was elected to the House in 2008 and was unopposed in this year’s primary and general election for the District 1 seat.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our colleague,” said House Speaker Scott Saiki. “Our heartfelt condolences go to Mark’s family during this time.”
“I feel so terrible at this point because Mark was a good representative for his constituents,” said state Sen. Lorraine Inouye, who represents the Hilo area.
Nakashima of the House Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee and a former vice speaker. According to , he previously worked as a legislative aide and an employee with the Hawaii State Teachers Association.
Gov. Josh Green has ordered the U.S. flag and the Hawaii state flag to be flown at half-staff at all state offices and agencies from sunrise Friday to sunset Monday in recognition of his “unwavering service,” according to a press release.
鈥淚鈥檓 heartbroken about the news of Mark鈥檚 passing,” said Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke. “We have been close friends ever since attending UH Manoa 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.”
