Robert C. Oshiro, a top campaign strategist for the Hawai'i Democratic Party for more than 30 years, died yesterday afternoon at age 83.

Oshiro, who suffered a sudden ruptured aortic aneurysm, created and inspired the grassroots support that was influential in getting John A. Burns. George Ariyoshi and John Waihe'e elected governor.

Oshiro passed away at Wahiawa General Hospital with his immediate family around him.

In a floor session today, the state House remembered Oshiro with a moment of silence."

He is survived by his wife, Ruth, two daughters, Roberta and Susan, his son, state Rep. Marcus Oshiro, D-39th (Wahiawa), and four grandchildren.