Teacher, former lawmaker Richard Wasai dead at 70
By Treena Shapiro
Advertiser Staff Writer
Richard Hidenori Wasai, a former state representative and educator, died Friday at the age of 70.
Advertiser library photo
Wasai of Kane'ohe served two terms in the state House from 1970 to 1974, representing Kane'ohe to Sunset Beach and serving as chairman of Education; Parks, Fish and Game Management, and the Public Employment committees at various times during his tenure.
Richard Wasai served two terms in the state House from 1970 to 1974.
A colorful campaigner, Wasai grabbed the attention of passing motorists with novel signs, costumes and gimmicks at what he called his roadside "campaign headquarters." Shortly after the legislature banned signwaving by candidates in 1973, Wasai became a plaintiff in one of two lawsuits that successfully saw the law overturned.
Born in Lahaina, Maui, Wasai received a degree in journalism from the University of Miami and a professional teaching certificate from the University of Hawai'i.
He taught at Castle and McKinley high schools, as well as schools on the Neighbor Islands.
Wasai is survived by his wife, Florence; daughters, Tamalyn and Joy; granddaughter, Kira Young; sisters, Eiko Togo and Beverly Takahashi.
Visitation will be at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin at 5 p.m. on Friday with services at 6 p.m. The family requests no flowers and casual attire.
Arrangements are being made by Hosoi Garden Mortuary.
