Big Island state lawmaker Mark Nakashima dies; flags ordered at half-staff

Sitting Big Island state lawmaker Rep. Mark Nakashima, who represented House District 1 comprised of Hāmākua, a portion of Hilo and Kaʻūmana, has died. He was 61 years old.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our colleague,” said Hawai’i House Speaker Scott K. Saiki in a statement Thursday afternoon. “This is a tremendous loss for the Hāmākua, Hilo and Kaʻūmana community and the House of Representatives. Mark served his community and our state with dignity and respect. He will be missed. Our heartfelt condolences go to Mark’s family during this time.”

Gov. Josh Green on Thursday afternoon ordered the U.S. and Hawaiʻi state flags to be flown at half-staff from sunrise July 12 until sunset July 15 at the state Capitol in Honolulu and at all state offices and agencies, as well as the Hawaiʻi National Guard, in recognition of Nakashima’s unwavering service.

Green said the dedicated public servant, who was first elected to his seat in 2008, was committed to the community and state, which was made evident by his work and leadership.

A former educator, 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.

Nakashima was a graduate of the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, with a bachelor’s of education degree and professional diploma in education, with an emphasis in political science.

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

Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, who is acting governor while Green is out of state, is heartbroken about the news of the Big Island lawmaker’s death.

“We have been close friends ever since attending UH-Mānoa together,” said Luke. “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.”

According to a Hawaiʻi News Now article, Nakashima developed kidney disease after living with diabetes for nearly two decades.

He underwent regular dialysis before receiving a kidney transplant. He shared his story during National Kidney Month last year in hopes of raising awareness of kidney disease and early detection.