Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Representative Neil Abercrombie today issued this statement on the death of Honolulu City Councilmember Duke Bainum:

"Duke Bainum was a quiet but irresistible force. He served with tremendous dedication and aloha, as a physician, Neighborhood Board chairman, State Representative and City Councilmember. Duke never lost his love of service or his sense of responsibility to the people of Honolulu. In fact, it grew even stronger over the years. 

"Duke was able to overcome the controversial circumstances of his most recent election and be a thoughtful leader, focused first and foremost on solving problems and improving the quality of life for the citizens around him. His footprints will remain indelible in the things he accomplished and the people whose lives he touched. Honolulu has lost a strong and committed voice."

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