#died Oct. 8 at his home in Hilo

Known for his iconic beard and ponytail and affectionately called Dr. Jim by many, Kauahikaua joined the Big Island volcano observatory’s staff in 1988. He became scientist-in-charge, the first Native Hawaiian to serve in the position, in 2004 and served 10 years in the post until he stepped down in March 2015 and rotated back to his former position.