Flags to Fly at Half Staff in Honor of Kawasaki

Flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset across the state on Monday, Sept. 21 in a mark of respect for the late former State Senator Duke Takeshi Kawasaki, who passed away on Aug. 28.

Governor David Ige ordered that all United States and State of Hawai’i flags will be lowered at all state offices and agencies and the Hawai’i National Guard.

“Senator Kawasaki was a respected public servant who served his community with honor and integrity.  He was a leader in the Senate who was not afraid to put aside partisan politics and do what was right for the people of Hawai‘i,” Said Governor Ige. “On behalf of the State of Hawai‘i, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the Kawasaki ‘Ohana.”

Kawasaki was born in Honolulu and graduated from McKinley High School before traveling to Boston to attend Berklee College of Music.

From 1967 to 1986, Kawasaki served in the Hawai‘i State Senate and held various leadership positions, including assistant majority floor leader and Vice President.

Kawasaki also served as deputy managing director under Honolulu Mayor Frank Fasi.