Flags at Half-Mast Monday--Tribute to Joe Bertram

UPDATE: 6/6/20 As a mark of respect for former state Representative Joseph “Joe” Bertram III, Governor David Ige has ordered that the flags of the United States and State of Hawai?i shall be flown at half-staff at all state offices and agencies, as well as the Hawai?i National Guard, from sunrise to sunset on Monday, June 8, 2020.

Community gathers to pay tribute to “Mr. GO KIHEI”Joe Bertram III

5/27/20/20 #kihei

An assembly of friends and family of the late Joe Bertram III– See https://gokihei.org/environment/kca-and-all-of-south-maui-lost-a-great-friend-yestersday gathered this morning near Keawekapu beach for a celebratory tree planting in his honor. With short notice of the action, about twenty five guys gathered for the event organized by the current South Maui State Representative Tina Wildberger (a position formerly held by Joe for two terms).

After a score of years away from the KCA board, Joe volunteered to return this year. Four current KCA directors and several organization members were among those there to share memories of Joe and to join in the planting of an Ulu (breadfruit) tree and express condolences to his Mom, sister Gayle & brother Jeff. In addition to Rep Wildberger, State Senator Roz Baker and District Councilmember Kelly King participated.

A common theme among the shared recollections was Joe’s consistent smile and optimism facing the most difficult challenges, and that he stayed true to his commitment to social justice and to walkable, bikeable communities his whole life.