Former state Rep. Bob Herkes, 83, has died, according to West Hawaii Today.

Herkes represented the Big Island.

House Speaker Joe Souki issued a statement on Herkes’ passing:

“Hawaii has lost a dedicated and passionate public servant who championed protecting consumer rights during his 18 years in the State House of Representatives. Bob worked tirelessly to pass legislation that strengthened the rights of residents in mortgage foreclosures. He was an early and strong advocate of natural disaster preparedness and was one of the first to call attention to the health effects of vog. He was a good legislator, highly respected by his colleagues and a great friend. I will miss him.”

Souki added: “On behalf of the House of Representatives I would like to offer our condolences to his wife Jo-Anna and his sons Bobby, Kenny and Doug.”

Gov. Neil Abercrombie also issued a statement:

“A former state representative, state senator, Hawaii County Council member and local businessman, Bob had a solid record of getting things done for the people of Hawaii. His long career in public service brought about countless benefits for Hawaii Island, including his integral role in incorporating the appropriation for the first FEMA-certified shelter in Kau, providing a drinking water system for Ocean View, and establishing a mobile medical van to bring basic medical services to rural areas.”

Abercrombie added, “His fierce dedication to the people of the Big Island and our entire state will be remembered.”

The governor will order flags to half-staff on the day of services, once they are announced by the Herkes family.

In his last term, Herkes chaired the House Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce and was an assistant majority whip. He left the House to unsuccessfully seek a state Senate seat in 2012.

Herkes was born in Iloilo City in the Philippines, raised in Hilo and was a third-generation resident of the Big Island, according to House records.

A retired hotel executive, Herkes graduated with honors from Cornell Hotel School and worked in the hospitality industry for 40 years.

Rep. Bob Herkes at a legislative hearing concerning vog.

Hawaii House of Representatives