Honolulu politicians react to the death of former Mayor Frank Fasi:

Mayor Mufi Hannemann

“I’m heartbroken over the passing of a true legend in island politics.

“Frank Fasi earned a reputation as a maverick among the establishment politicos during his years in public office, but he was the bold and gutsy leader who shaped modern Honolulu.  His enduring achievements are all around us: TheBus, the Fasi Civic Center, senior citizens programs, Honolulu City Lights, farmers markets, satellite city halls, and on and on. Even rail transit was a centerpiece of his administration.

“He never hesitated to take a stand on the tough issues.  Hizzoner was occasionally a thorn in the side of some, but I believe his record stands as a testament to the thought and heart that went into his decisions.

“One of my earliest acts was to name the City’s office tower the Frank F. Fasi Municipal Building in his honor, with the City Council’s support.  He was also a special guest at my first Honolulu City Lights and again at last year’s, and I know he took special pride in seeing how appreciated his work was.

“I feel tremendously indebted to Frank Fasi, as should all the people of Hawaii. I’m honored that I’ve benefited from his work at City Hall and have been given an opportunity to build on his legacy.

“Gail and I offer our prayers and sympathies to Joyce and the Fasi ohana.”

Hawaii's senators remember Fasi

U.S. Senators Daniel K. Inouye and Daniel K. Akaka remembered former Mayor Frank Fasi in separate statements today.

Inouye wrote:

“;Frank Fasi was one of a kind. He arrived in Hawaii as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps. We served in the territorial legislature together before he went on to become Mayor of Honolulu. His tenure as mayor was controversial to say the least but there is much that he accomplished for Honolulu and the rest of Hawaii. Frank pushed the highway system that helped develop the Leeward side of Oahu. He responded to a transit strike by establishing The Bus to ensure that workers all across Oahu could get to and from their jobs each day.

“;He was also the first Mayor to drive himself to work. Frank always fought passionately for what he believed was right and fashioned himself the fearless champion of the 'little guy.'

“;Whether you were for or against Frank Fasi, one thing you could not do was ignore him. Frank was my friend. Even in times when he left the party, we remained friends. I'm sorry to note his voice will not be heard again but his legacy of service to Honolulu and our state will last forever. My thoughts and prayers are with Joyce and the rest of the Fasi family during this difficult time.”;

From Akaka:

“;Frank Fasi was a good friend with a good heart dedicated to helping the people of Hawaii. Frank was a kind hearted leader who would reach out to island families and help them as much as he could. Frank accomplished so much. When you look around O'ahu, you see his legacy everywhere. Frank and his family were a force, committed to making Hawaii better. We will miss him dearly.

“;I have fond memories of golfing with Frank. He played like he ran the city: if he saw something wrong with my swing, he would pounce, tell me what I was doing wrong, and help me improve. Aloha, Frank.”;

Hawaii's congressional representatives

Rep. Neil Abercrombie

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Frank Fasi was his own legacy.  He didn’t need to leave behind impressive buildings or heroic statues or huge parks to be remembered.  He left a rich inheritance of public service based on a genuine love of Honolulu and everyone it, from the oldest to the youngest; from the most accomplished to the most unskilled; the most secure to the most vulnerable.  And everyone in Honolulu is an heir to that legacy.

For many of us, Frank Fasi seemed like he’d always been our mayor, and always would be.  I had the great privilege of working closely with him during my service on the City Council, and I can say without qualification, that people always knew exactly where the they stood with him.  He was totally without pretense or artifice.  He never had a hidden agenda.

His passing leaves me with mixed feelings.  On one hand, I am saddened because he is no longer with us, and I will miss him.  At the same time, I think we should celebrate such a full life so well lived.

Thank you, Mr. Mayor.

Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono

Frank Fasi brought an exciting style of politics to the islands. As the longest serving Mayor in Honolulu’s history, he established many city services that continue today: an island wide bus system, satellite city halls, and city open markets.  Combative, gutsy, and outspoken, Mayor Frank Fasi will be remembered as a dedicated public servant and for his love of Hawaii’s people.  I extend my deepest condolences to Frank’s wife, Joyce, and the rest of the Fasi Family.

Others

City Councilman Ikaika Anderson

“I have always admired and respected Mayor Fasi. He was truly one of the greatest mayors Honolulu has ever had, a visionary who spoke with action rather than words. Mayor Fasi dedicated his best years to making this city the best it could be, and we have him to thank for many of the programs and services offered by the City and County of Honolulu today. On behalf of the Anderson family, Lisa and I send our sincerest condolences to Mrs. Joyce Fasi and the family of Mayor Frank F. Fasi.”