Hawaii Rep. Mark Takai, 49, dies after battle with pancreatic cancer

Rep. Mark Takai (D-Hawaii) died Wednesday after a nine-month battle with pancreatic cancer, his office announced.

Takai, 49, was elected to represent Hawaii’s Oahu-based first congressional district in 2014.

In late October, he announced he had been diagnosed with a small tumor on his pancreas after experiencing stomach pains. At that time, Takai referred to his prognosis as “very good thanks to early detection.” He underwent surgery to remove the tumor in November.

On May 20, he announced he would serve out the rest of his term but not seek reelection because the cancer had spread.

Prior to his election, Takai served in the Hawaii House of Representatives from 1994 to 2014, including two years as vice speaker. He leaves behind his wife, Sami, and two children.

“The Takai family thanks the people of Hawaii for their support during this difficult time … [and] politely asks for the continued respect of their family’s privacy,” his office said in a statement Wednesday.

Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) in a statement praised Takai, who served in the Army National Guard, as “an exemplary soldier, public servant, and beloved member of the House of Representatives. His love for Hawaii and the people he represented was evident every day.”

Colleagues, including Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), honored Takai on social media:

Heartbroken to hear my friend Rep Mark Takai has died. This was us just 18 mos ago at new member orientation. pic.twitter.com/8cGOk9hUZg
— US Rep Brendan Boyle (@RepBrendanBoyle) July 20, 2016

Mark Takai has a wonderful wife and kids. He was a smart and giving person. Truly dedicated public servant. I'm still in shock.
— US Rep Brendan Boyle (@RepBrendanBoyle) July 20, 2016

Deeply saddened to hear about my colleague Mark Takai's passing from cancer. The Democratic family's thoughts are with the Takais today.
— Debbie Wasserman Schultz (@DWStweets) July 20, 2016

I'm completely heartbroken to hear that @RepMarkTakai has lost his battle with cancer. He was a great leader. I already miss my friend.
— Judy Chu (@RepJudyChu) July 20, 2016

Devastated by Mark Takai's passing and my thoughts are with his family. An extraordinary colleague, friend and public servant.
— Joe Kennedy III (@joekennedy) July 20, 2016

Saddened to hear about the passing of my friend and colleague Mark Takai. He was and will always remain a true public servant.
— Paul Tonko ⚫️ (@RepPaulTonko) July 20, 2016

Saddened to hear about the death of @RepMarkTakai. A great public servant, and an even better father. I’m thinking about his family.
— Keith Ellison (@keithellison) July 20, 2016

Congressman Mark Takai's passing is a great loss. He was a good man and public servant. Sending my deepest condolences to his family.
— Rep.Grace Napolitano (@gracenapolitano) July 20, 2016

Rest in peace, @RepMarkTakai. I'm praying for you & your family and giving thanks to have known you.
— Rep. Donald Payne Jr (@RepDonaldPayne) July 20, 2016

Heartbroken by the passing of my dear colleague @RepMarkTakai after his battle with pancreatic cancer. My deepest condolences to his family.
— Loretta Sanchez (@LorettaSanchez) July 20, 2016

Deeply saddened to hear my friend, Rep. Mark Takai, has passed away. He was a champion for Hawai'i, our servicemembers & ppl across the US.
— Rep. Barbara Lee (@RepBarbaraLee) July 20, 2016