LINDA DELANEY / 1947-2003
Hawaiian cultural
expert was helpful to all
Linda Kawai'ono Delaney was a good friend to many inside and outside the Hawaiian community.
"She was a good source for me on Hawaiian issues," said Jim Hall, a researcher for the state House Minority Office, who knew Delaney for more than 30 years. "She had a terrific sense of humor."
Delaney, a Hawaiian cultural expert and former land and natural resources manager at the state Office of Hawaiian Affairs, died Wednesday at her home in Honolulu.
The 56-year-old was the office manager for state Rep. Dennis Arakaki (D, Kalihi Valley) for the past five years and a veteran worker at the Capitol.
Delaney also served as first vice president of the Prince Kuhio Hawaiian Civic Club. In 1998 she traveled to Providence, R.I., to retrieve an ancient and sacred spear rest that had been on auction after it spent two centuries there.
During the 1960s, Delaney was active in the nonviolent anti-war protests at the University of Hawaii. She remained involved in politics through the years.
She often shared her experience with others at the Capitol, no matter their political affiliation.
"She always told me, whatever I do, don't let the politics affect your personal life," said Kymberly Pine, director of the House Minority Research Office.
Delaney was born in 1947 Centralia, Wash.
She is survived by brother Alexander Delaney and companion Kina'u Boyd Kamali'i, a former state representative.
Services will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Borthwick Mortuary. Call after 5 p.m. Private scattering of ashes at a later date. Aloha attire.