In 2015 Hawaii mourned the deaths of several people whose talents enhanced the arts and entertainment community:

>> Ron Bright: Educator, stage director and mentor to several generations of aspiring actors and Broadway entertainers. Died July 7 at age 81.

>> Michael Cord: Musician, record producer, president and CEO of HanaOla Records/Cord International who specialized in re-issuing digitally remastered recordings of out-of-print Hawaiian and hapa haole music. Died May 8 at age 65.

>> Leina‘ala Kalama Heine: Kumu hula, comic hula dancer and showroom entertainer who performed with the Brothers Cazimero. Died Sept. 9 at age 75.

>> Nedward “Nicky Boy” Kaapana: Musician, vocalist, Na Hoku Hanohano Award-winning recording artist and member of Hui Ohana. Died April 3 at age 66.

>> Ernie “Menehune” Rivera: “Hawaii’s suntanned Irishman,” hapa haole showroom entertainer and recording artist who spent most of his career on the mainland, was the older brother of Kauai entertainer Larry Rivera. Died March 26 at age 92.

>> Robert “Bob” Nelson: Musician, songwriter, recording artist and composer of “Hanalei Moon” and “Maui Waltz.” Died May 8 at age 80.

>> Bill Ogilvie: Stage and film actor, director, educator and former member of the comedy trio Booga Booga. Died May 14 at age 68.

>> Steve Ware: Musician, recording artist, Waikiki lounge entertainer and member of Bernadette &The Sunshine Company. Died Dec. 15 at age 61.