News filtered out early Wednesday that cultural icon, artist, and south Kona resident Herb Kane had died. He died at Kaiser Hospital on Oahu, following a fairly long illness that only worsened started February 22. His wife Deon was by his side.
Tributes starting pouring in yesterday from all over the world. Senator Daniel Akaka, Senator Daniel K. Inouye, and Mayor Billy Kenoi all added their condolences and remembrances of Kane’s many contributions to the world of Hawaiian culture, art, and design. Nanioa Thompson, a navigator on the voyaging canoe Hokulea, said Herb introduced Hawaiian culture to many, including to many Hawaiians. Kane designed and was the first captain of the Hokulea.
Just last November, he unveiled a permanent exhibition of his work at King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel. Herb’s wife, Deon, said he wanted no public service. Deon and Herb’s three children, Susan, Jennifer, and David, have asked that memorial contributions go to Kanu ‘O Ka ‘Aina New Century Public Charter School in Waimea, P.O. Box 398; Kamuela, HI 96743.
(See detailed story of Herb’s life: http://www.bigislandnewscenter.com/beloved-icon-herb-kane-dies)
