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Patsy Mink Condolences

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Mink is Mourned

Even though I never lived in Hawai'i, I greatly admired Rep. Mink. Her vision will be sorely missed. My condolences are extended to her husband and daughter.

Meredith Dubin
Tustin, California

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Tribute to Patsy Takemoto Mink

I've taught now in the public school system 33 years. Patsy Takemoto Mink was one of my heroes because she "spoke her mind" and did whatever she believed in to enact legislation to benefit all Americans. As  a 13-year-old, I corresponded with her regarding the law profession as a possible career and why she was so involved in politics. I met her in person and through the years I've been a staunch supporter of hers. She opened the doors for women, the poor and the downtrodden. Through Patsy's example in public service, I decided to become a  public school teacher. I presently teach at Mililani High School American Civics and Ethnic Studies.  I appreciate so much what she has done for all of us and will miss her. I found her to be  a champion of the people.

Bob Hu

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Aloha to a Hawaiian Treasure

To the family of Patsy T. Mink may I add my deepest condolences. Patsy was a dear friend to me and to all the citizens or Hawai'i. Her service to her family, state and the country for over 40 years will be deeply missed.

Patsy was always present when in her Washington office to meet and greet her friends and neighbors from Hawai'i when they visited the nation's Capitol.

She was especially kind and generous when school children from Hawai'i stopped by to say aloha to her.

Patsy is a true daughter of Hawai'i and should be remembered as one of Hawai'i's finest treasures.

Donald J. Worobe
South Paris, Maine

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In Memory of Patsy Takemoto Mink

I am not sure why I am compelled to write or feel extremely shaken by her death, but her memory lives in my dreams. Hearing about her passing directly from Norm Mineta at the National Japanese American Memorial Foundation board meeting may have influenced my sadness. In a crowd filled with Niseis celebrating the patriotism of Japanese-Americans during World War II, it created a profound energy inside me that was unexpected. While not a poet by any means, words seemed to flow from my heart. With these words, I offer them in memory of Patsy Takemoto Mink:

Shikata ga nai, but it can be helped
Through leadership,
Through action,
Through love.

Shikata ga nai, but it can be helped
Gender nor class,
Racism and prejudice,
Strength to overcome.

Shikata ga nai, but it can be helped
A torch has been lit
Her spirit burns bright
Yonsei must be the fuel

Shikata ga nai, but it can be helped
A legacy has begun,
Her strengths lives
In the hearts of the youth.

Shikata ga nai, but it can be helped
Giri, On, Obligation,
We will carry on,
Otsukare sama deshita.

I am a Yonsei, born and raised in Idaho Falls, Idaho, now living in Bethesda, Maryland. My father is from Lahaina Maui, and my mother is from Idaho Falls.

Daniel Hiroyuki Teraguchi

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Aloha to a Great Woman, Patsy Mink

Condolences to the Mink family,

I would like to express my deepest regrets to the Mink family.  I am saddened to hear that such a great person had succumbed to a childhood illness that has a devastating effect on older people.  I am away from the island but ran into her at the Honolulu International Airport on July 19, 2002, as I was on my way back to continue Operation Enduring Freedom overseas.

She was a wonderful person to talk with and she was very approachable and had a sense of humor.  The state of Hawai'i has lost one lady that will be very difficult to replace. 

Aloha and God bless,
CW3 Glen K. Kamanao
Watch Chief,  Office of the Deputy Intelligence
Headquarters United States Army Europe 7th Army