Rep. Denny Coffman resigns
The Hawaii Island representative cites family reasons for stepping down.
Denny Coffman, a member of the Hawaii State House of Representatives representing the 5th district, submitted his resignation today.
“I do so for family reasons,” Coffman writes. He continues:
I lost my wife of 44 years this summer due to brain cancer. I am now the only parent and grandparent for my daughters and grandchildren. On Saturday, November 17, 2013, I learned that my oldest daughter’s breast cancer has returned and the cancer has spread to several locations in her lymph system. She is facing another big battle with cancer.
With the loss of my wife, I am now mother and father to Amy and she needs my help. While I love Hawaii with all my heart, my love for family must trump my legislative plans. The recession of the past 5 years caused my daughters and grandchildren to leave Hawaii to find employment on the mainland. To help Amy battle her cancer, I too must leave Hawaii.
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the people of Hawaii. I leave knowing that I have represented the communities of Hawaii Island and the State to the best of my ability.
Photo by Anika Nui