Chief never stopped serving his community

BLUE was the color on Beretania Street Wednesday when ranks of uniformed Honolulu police officers stood in salute of the gentleman who had been their chief for seven years.

Michael Nakamura

Red were the roses given to mourners attending the memorial service for Michael Nakamura, who died April 1, eight days short of his 59th birthday.

The blossoms were a reminder of a favorite saying of Nakamura's -- to stop and smell the roses -- an adage that echoed his joyful view of life.

A debilitating disease that left him unable to walk could not stifle his verve and enthusiasm. After leaving the HPD he loved, he carried on with aplomb, vigorously serving the community in other ways.

Compassion was a mark of his character. After a driver ran him down as Nakamura crossed a street in his scooter, he publicly forgave the man, not wanting him to go to prison. The man was given probation -- and a chance to turn his life around.

Nakamura was eulogized by the Rev. George Nagato as one "who focused on blessings" and "who chose to smile instead of frown" -- fitting remembrances of a remarkable spirit.