Longtime state House
sergeant-at-arms
dies of cancer

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By Crystal Kua
ckua@starbulletin.com

Described as a man who believed in the workings of democracy, state House Sergeant-at-Arms Kevin Ebata died yesterday after battling cancer. He was 45.

"He just devoted his life to the legislative process," said House Chief Clerk Patricia Mau-Shimizu. "He really believed in lawmaking and in the democratic institution."

Ebata, who began his career in the House clerk's office 20 years ago as an accountant, had been sergeant-at-arms for about 14 years, Mau-Shimizu said. It is one of four positions that is filled by majority vote of House members.

"Kevin was really proud to be part of the Sergeant-at-Arms Office," Mau-Shimizu said.

The Sergeant-at-Arms Office's duties include providing security for offices and chambers of the state House.

"He was an integral part of the operations," Mau-Shimizu said. "Yes, he will be missed, but not only by the staff here, but by the House members, lobbyists, everyone."

Assistant House Sergeant-at-Arms Frank Arakaki will be acting sergeant-at-arms for the 2002 session.

Ebata was also the president of the National Legislative Services and Security Association, an organization of sergeants-at-arms, security personnel and support services staff for state legislatures across the country.

Mau-Shimizu said that Tony Beard Jr., chief sergeant-at-arms with the California Senate and member of the organization, came to Hawaii last week to present two association awards to Ebata.

Ebata's survivors include his wife, Kelly, and his 8-year-old daughter.