Hawaii Officials React To Fasi's DeathPOSTED: 11:51 am HST February 4, 2010 HONOLULU -- Sen. Daniel Inouye - “Frank Fasi was one of a kind. He arrived in Hawaii as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps. We served in the territorial legislature together before he went on to become Mayor of Honolulu. His tenure as Mayor was controversial to say the least but there is much that he accomplished for Honolulu and the rest of Hawaii. Frank pushed the highway system that helped develop the Leeward side of Oahu. He responded to a transit strike by establishing The Bus to ensure that workers all across Oahu could get to and from their jobs each day. He was also the first Mayor to drive himself to work. Frank always fought passionately for what he believed was right and fashioned himself the fearless champion of the “little guy.”" Whether you were for or against Frank Fasi, one thing you could not do was ignore him. Frank was my friend. Even in times when he left the party, we remained friends. I’m sorry to note his voice will not be heard again but his legacy of service to Honolulu and our state will last forever. My thoughts and prayers are with Joyce and the rest of the Fasi family during this difficult time.”U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono - "Frank Fasi brought an exciting style of politics to the islands. As the longest serving Mayor in Honolulu’s history, he established many city services that continue today: an island wide bus system, satellite city halls, and city open markets. Combative, gutsy, and outspoken, Mayor Frank Fasi will be remembered as a dedicated public servant and for his love of Hawaii’s people. I extend my deepest condolences to Frank’s wife, Joyce, and the rest of the Fasi Family."Gov. Linda Lingle - "Our state has lost a true leader and an outstanding public servant who worked tirelessly to make life better for the people.“When it came to getting things done, Former Honolulu Mayor Frank Fasi did whatever it took – finding innovative, sometimes unconventional, often controversial solutions. He cared less about pleasing the political establishment and more about helping the people he represented. Mayor Fasi never waivered from his commitment to helping the every day person, and always showed great empathy for their daily struggles. He was someone citizens could relate to and turn to for straight answers, even if they may not have always agreed with him.“He was a man of vision who never shied from taking bold actions, and his legacy is seen throughout the City and County of Honolulu today.“We are grateful for Frank Fasi’s years of service, and extend our deepest sympathy to his wife Joyce and their entire family.”Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona Jr. - "Frank Fasi was a giant in Hawai‘i politics, and his passing will be felt throughout our state.“His impact can be seen by his many public works projects and strong community programs that continue to this day.“I had the pleasure of working for Mayor Fasi early in my career as a city attorney, and he was a man of action who inspired others to do their very best.“Vivian and I extend our deepest sympathy to Joyce and all of the Fasi family, as well as his many friends and supporters across our state.”Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann - "I’m heartbroken over the passing of a true legend in island politics.“Frank Fasi earned a reputation as a maverick among the establishment politicos during his years in public office, but he was the bold and gutsy leader who shaped modern Honolulu. His enduring achievements are all around us: TheBus, the Fasi Civic Center, senior citizens programs, Honolulu City Lights, farmers markets, satellite city halls, and on and on. Even rail transit was a centerpiece of his administration.“He never hesitated to take a stand on the tough issues. Hizzoner was occasionally a thorn in the side of some, but I believe his record stands as a testament to the thought and heart that went into his decisions.“One of my earliest acts was to name the City’s office tower the Frank F. Fasi Municipal Building in his honor, with the City Council’s support. He was also a special guest at my first Honolulu City Lights and again at last year’s, and I know he took special pride in seeing how appreciated his work was.“I feel tremendously indebted to Frank Fasi, as should all the people of Hawaii. I’m honored that I’ve benefited from his work at City Hall and have been given an opportunity to build on his legacy.“Gail and I offer our prayers and sympathies to Joyce and the Fasi ohana.”Sen. Daniel Akaka - "Frank Fasi was a good friend with a good heart dedicated to helping the people of Hawai'i. Frank was a kind hearted leader who would reach out to island families and help them as much as he could. Frank accomplished so much. When you look around O'ahu, you see his legacy everywhere. Frank and his family were a force, committed to making Hawaii better. We will miss him dearly."I have fond memories of golfing with Frank. He played like he ran the city: if he saw something wrong with my swing, he would pounce, tell me what I was doing wrong, and help me improve. Aloha, Frank."Big Island Mayor Billy Kenoi - “Mayor Frank Fasi was one of the great personalities in Hawai’i politics, a political giant, and he will be missed. His will and determination to advance his agenda made him a force to be reckoned with during each and every year of his long political career, whether he was serving in the Territorial Legislature, on the City Council, or governing as Honolulu’s mayor.“To walk through downtown Honolulu is to walk past many of the achievements of Frank Fasi’s remarkable career. Whether he was building Honolulu’s world-class bus service or leaving his imprint on the public spaces of the city, Frank Fasi 'got the job done.' "Hawaii Democratic Party Chairman and former Big Island Mayor Dante Carpenter - "Frank Fasi was a fellow Mayor, a good friend and had the testicular fortitude to strive constantly in meeting the needs of the people of the City and County of Honolulu in the broadest possible sense! Frank has moved to a higher calling having gained experiences far beyond the average mortal man. He transported O‘ahu’s people wherever they wanted to go by “The Bus,” provided services in our own neighborhood’s through “Satellite City Halls,” and lit up our lives with “Honolulu City Lights!” This was the Mayor who displayed courage and perseverance above and beyond the call of duty with determination and inspiration longer than any other in the history of Mayors. Frank you will be missed!" Copyright 2010 by KITV.com All rights reserved. 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