George Mine of Hilo, 442nd veteran

By Hugh Clark
Advertiser Big Island Bureau

HILO, Hawai'i — George Nobuo Mine, a member of the 442nd Combat Regimental Team during World War II, died Monday at Hilo Medical Center. He was 78.

Mine, born in Honoka'a, worked as Big Island field representative for the American Red Cross for 25 years and continued to support the agency after he retired. He also worked for the Boy Scouts of America and later was employed by the Hawai'i County's Department of Research and Development and by Jack's Tours as a tour guide.

"He had such a sweet spirit. He was a very friendly, generous and humble guy," said the Rev. Ron Kent of Hilo Coast United Church of Christ. Kent said Mine befriended him and became his mentor when the pastor arrived on the Big Island eight years ago.

During the war in Europe, Mine was driving a jeep when his convoy was attacked.

Vehicles in front and behind him were blown up, and Mine was captured. He spent 10 months as a prisoner of war.

Visitation will be from 3 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Dodo Mortuary, with a memorial service at 4 p.m. The family requests casual attire and no flowers.

Mine is survived by his wife, Tomiko; son, Claton of Kurtistown; daughters, Caryn of Hilo and Shari of Colorado; sister, Mitsue Okimoto of Papa'ikou; and two grandchildren.