Recognized as a quiet leader and a tireless advocate for the community and the state, Rep. Bob Nakasone died on December 7, 2008, after a long struggle with lung cancer. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Nakasone; two sons, Byon and Vance Nakasone; his mother, Doris Nakasone; a brother, Jay Nakasone; a sister, Karen Lederer; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Focusing on capital improvement projects, Rep. Nakasone was instrumental in ensuring that our schools, hospitals, and other facilities received the attention and funding required to best serve communities around the state. Prior to his service as a State Representative in 1992, he was elected to serve as a member of the Maui County Council in 1977. Throughout his career as a public servant, his low-key, non-partisan style earned him accolades from both sides of the aisle.

It is with great sadness and regret that we must say "goodbye" to the veteran Representative of the 9th House District.

Speaker Calvin Say remarks on the loss of a dear friend and colleague:

“The island of Maui and the state of Hawaii have lost a dedicated public servant,” said Speaker of the House Calvin Say. “Rep. Bob Nakasone was a very private and quiet man, but he was held in great respect in the Legislature due to his experience, his knowledge, and his unwavering commitment to serving Hawaii’s people.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Nakasone family,” continued Speaker Say. “As a long-time colleague, we served many years in the House together, and he will be greatly missed. You could always count on Bob Nakasone as a leader and an asset to the House, especially in tough times. Even though he was very reserved, people knew he had a big heart, and that making Hawaii a better place for our families was the essence behind his public service. I felt privileged to work beside him.”

Dear Friends,

Aloha and welcome to a new endeavor on the part of the Majority Caucus of the State Legislature – the Majority Caucus website.

I appreciate your interest in state government and your taking the time to get involved. It is with pride that I serve the people of Wailuku, Puunene, Kahului, and Paia. I am always interested in listening to your concerns and ideas on ways of improving our community.

My office is just a call, letter, or e-mail away. Maui No Ka Oi.

Sincerely,
Bob Nakasone
State Representative
9th District

TOPICS OF INTEREST

• State Highways; County Subdivision Approvals. Rep. Nakasone introduced a measure, enacted into law as Act 12, Session Laws of Hawaii (SLH) 2008, that exempts state highways projects from county subdivision approvals regarding highway projects that involve acquisitions.
  
  
• Unemployment Security. Rep. Nakasone introduced a measure, enacted into law as Act 110, SLH 2007, that temporarily raises the maximum weekly unemployment benefit to 75% of the average weekly wage.
  

NEWS AND EVENTS

• June 11, 2007. Important employment benefits Act passed. (article)