Farewell Representative Jack Suwa

I heard that Representative Jack Suwa passed away last Friday, January 22, 2010 at 85 years old.  I met Rep. Suwa after I got elected in the Hawaii House of Representatives in 2002.  At that time, he was working for the House Sergeant-at-Arms.  I heard how he was a good House Finance Chair and was known for his straightforward style of leadership and how he would mumble when he spoke.  Rep. Suwa told me he was friends with my late grandpa Maurice Karamatsu, former Vice President of Duty Free Shoppers.  I thanked him for his friendship with my grandpa.  He donated to my campaign to show his support.  I am so honored I got to know him.