Longtime GOP lawmaker Gene Ward dead at 82, leaving legacy of principle and political resilience
HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawaii has lost one of its longest serving and most influential Republican voices. Representative Gene Ward died early on the morning of April 4, according to his family. For 27 years, Ward was the voice of Hawaii Kai at the State Capitol.
Ward was fondly remembered today on the House floor for his commitment to public service and his legacy as an outspoken advocate for his district.
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As a Republican, Ward carved out his own style of politics, championing his constituents and was never afraid to speak up.
'He embodied what it means to be the opposition. He would never back down from a fight. He would stand firm on his principles, even if he was the only one standing,' said Minority Floor Leader Diamond Garcia.
Ward's life was one of service: in the Vietnam war and in the Peace Corps, a stint with USAID under the Bush Administration and over two decades in the state House.The governor ordered the flag to be lowered in his honor, calling him a 'fighter in every sense' and a 'dedicated leader.' 'Fearless' is also a word many are using to describe Ward.
'I would say, fearless when it came to wanting to get his point across as to how he represented his community. So I'm just deeply saddened,' said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi.
His passing leaves the Hawaii Republican Party working to compile a list of nominees to replace him. While his seat will be filled, his shoes may not be.
'I was at an event when I got the news and the amount of text messages and calls, just showed how many lives that he touched. So again, the legislature won't be the same without Representative Gene Ward,' said House Minority Leader Rep. Lauren Matsumoto.
Hawaii Republican Party members say a state funeral will likely be held at the Capitol.
Gene Ward was 82.
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