Big Island Rep. Clift Tsuji dies
STAR-ADVERTISER ARCHIVE
Rep. Clift Tsuji
State Rep. Clift Tsuji of the Big Island died today at the Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu after suffering a heart attack. He was 75.
Tsuji, a Democrat, represented House District 2 including Keaukaha, parts of Hilo, Panaewa and Waiakea. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2004.
As chairman of the Agriculture Committee, Tsuji was a vocal supporter of biotechnology and genetically modified crops. He was also a proponent of geothermal energy as an alternative to imported oil.
Tsuji was re-elected to his seat in the primary election, defeating two challengers. He had no opponent in general election.
“Rep. Clift Tsuji was a quiet man with a big heart who had the courage to stand for his convictions,” said Gov. David Ige in a statement issued this afternoon. “He was a passionate leader and a vigorous advocate for the Hilo community. His legacy of service will be remembered by his constituents and all Hawaii island residents. He was a personal friend, and I am going to miss his presence at the State Capitol. Dawn and I send our condolences to his sons, Ryan and Ashley.”
U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said, “Rep. Tsuji was low-key in style but a firm fighter for the needs of the people of the Big Island. He will be especially remembered for his advocacy of agriculture and its essential role in the economy and culture of Hawaii. Clift was earnest, hard-working, and always had a kind word for people. He will be greatly missed.”
Honolulu Mayor Kirk Caldwell noted that “Clift Tsuji was a friend. He was a decent, gentle man who cared so much about his community. He had much more to give and his passing is a tragic event for all of Hawaii.”
Tsuji was born on Jan. 20, 1941, and raised in the Big Island plantation town of Papaikou.
He was a 1959 graduate of Hilo High School and graduated with a communications degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and studied banking and economics at the University of Washington. Tsuji was vice president of Hilo Candy Co. from 2003 to 2004, and for 34 years he worked as a banker at Central Pacific Bank.
He served in the U.S. Army Reserve, 442nd Infantry, Company B, Hilo, from 1959 to 1965.
The family requested privacy. Services are pending.
15 responses to “Big Island Rep. Clift Tsuji dies”
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Such a kind and courteous man. A hui ho Representative Tsuji.
I believe that there is no higher accolade than to say that someone was a ind and courteous May he rest in peace.
(I’m sorry, “a kind and courteous man”)
And he was. I sometimes really disagreed with him, but you couldn’t find a more even-tempered, good-hearted man.
Condolences to the Tsuji family.
Another sad loss for Hawaii island: ILWU’s & retired Rep. Yoshito Takamine, Senator Gil Kahele, and now the farmer’s friend.
A sad Honaunau Famer
Mahalo to Rep. Tsuji for all his work for and dedication to the people of Hawaii.
Wow… Representative Tsuji was a 442nd Vet. Mahalo for your service to Hawaii and our Country. Rest in Peace Brother.
He was born in 1951 and was to young to serve during WW II. His service was post WW II, and in the 442nd Reserve Unit.
His service is to be appreciated and I do.
My deepest ALOHA to his ohana.
A great man; a big loss for all of Hawaii.
I don’t speak/think very highly of most politicians but in Rep. Tsuji’s case I’ll make an exception. He was a very nice, open-minded, humble man with a big heart. My condolences to his family.
Condolences to his ohana.
Sincere condolences to his family !
Clift’s offsprings are a testament to the kind of man he was. We will miss him.