Henry "Hank" Yoshihiro Arakaki Sr., a longtime local swimming official and black belt in judo, died Dec. 20. He was 74.

Arakaki, retired from the postal service, was a Korean War veteran and recipient of the Purple Heart. He taught hand-to-hand combat at Schofield Barracks while in the Army.

Arakaki was a familiar fixture at local age-group swim meets, serving as an official for 33 years until his retirement earlier this year. What began as a way to help out while his three sons swam turned into a continuing contribution.

"Hank is really someone who has given a lot to the local swimming community, especially age- group swimmers," said Harris Nakamoto, past president of Manoa Aquatics. "With Hank, you always knew you'd get a well-run meet that was on time. He had a reputation for looking for what was best for the swimmers."

Two of Arakaki's sons went on to swim in college and one, Daniel, was a UH swimming coach. But Arakaki also took pride in the achievements of the thousands of youngsters who swam in the meets he worked. "When they make a good time and get a qualifying time, seeing them accomplish something, well, you feel good, too," Arakaki said in an April 2005 interview.

Arakaki was a longtime member of Ka Makua Mau Loa Church.

Funeral services will be held tomorrow at Mililani Mortuary, Waipi'o. Visitation is at 5:30 p.m. and service at 6:30. Burial is Friday at 10 a.m. at Mililani Memorial Park.

Arakaki is survived by his wife, Beulah; daughter, Beth Ann U'i; sons, Daniel, Dr. Henry Jr. and Randall; brothers, Harry, Dr. George, Richard, Robert and Frank; sisters, Patricia Ann Lau, Gloria Gomes, Gail Arakaki, Sunday Ochi and Deborah Kawakami; four grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.