*Administration of Barack Obama, 2016 *

**Statement on the Death of Representative K. Mark Takai **

*July 20, 2016 *

Michelle and I were saddened to learn of the passing of Representative Mark Takai today. Mark was always a fighter. It's the spirit he brought to more than two decades of public service on behalf of the people of Hawaii. He stood up for America's most vulnerable. He championed our troops and veterans and proudly wore our Nation's uniform. And his relentless push for cancer research inspired countless Americans fighting the same battle as him. Simply put, our country is better off because of Mark's contributions. He leaves a legacy of courage, of service, and of hope. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mark's wife Sami, their two children, and his many friends and family.

NOTE: The statement referred to Matthew and Kaila Takai, children of Rep. Takai.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : Deaths :: Takai, Rep. K. Mark*.*

*Names:* Obama, Michelle; Takai, K. Mark; Takai, Kaila; Takai, Matthew; Takai, Sami*.*

*Subjects:* Deaths : Takai, Rep. K. Mark; Hawaii : U.S. Representative, death.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201600479.