Steve Hirakami, RIP

[Rob Tucker]

I am sad to announce that Steve Hirakami died yesterday morning from short run with pancreatic cancer.   Steve was a pillar of our Puna community and the founder and Director of Hawaii Academy of Arts and Science (HAAS).

He was a local boy with a long history in surfing.  His professional center was education of our keiki. All that Steve had within him was devoted to the benefit of the community.  And he had a lot to contribute.

Steve was honest, sincere, smart and experienced and he offered his abilities and aloha evenly to the everyone.

This is heart breaking news.  Steve was my friend and he will be sorely missed.  He leaves a legacy of contributions, kindness and good will.
So I ask you all to give him a moment of respect and appreciation.  He was and is loved.

Mahalo.

[ChunksterK]

HAAS is a testament to Mr. Hirakami's service to our community, although I'm sure he made other contributions as well. I've watched some young poeple go on to amazing things thanks to the education they got at HAAS. My condolences to all who were close to him. May he Rest in Peace.

[HereOnThePrimalEdge]

Mr. Hirakami’s passing is a loss for the Puna community, his family and friends.  He made our district a better place with his many contributions.  E hoʻomaha me ka maluhia.

[HiloJulie]

Sad news indeed.

My husband and I knew Steve and his wife Dr. Lynda socially thru other acquaintances, but from what I know and saw about Steve is that they did not come any better.

A sad loss for all of Puna.

[knieft]

Well said, Rob.

Steve was one of the greats. My life was quickened and deepened by Mr. Hirakami in many, many ways.

“He stomped on the Terra.” (Lord Buckley said that) WTBR

Kirt

[knieft]

Celebration of Life for Steve:

https://sites.google.com/haaspcs.net/stevehirakami/home

Cheers,
Kirt