SENATOR HIRONO STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF ROBERT RICHARDS MIDKIFF

HONOLULU – Senator Mazie K. Hirono released the following statement on the passing of Hawaii business leader and philanthropist, Robert Richards Midkiff.

“I am saddened to learn of the passing of my longtime friend, Bob Midkiff. Bob was a true champion for early education in Hawaii. He and I worked together on this key issue because we both recognized that a sound education, starting from preschool, lays the foundation for a child’s success in school and in life.

“With the passing of Bob Midkiff, we lost an individual with tremendous business acumen and a man who understood the value of giving back to the community. 

“Bob is considered the father of ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) in Hawaii. This is important because ESOPs allow employees to benefit from the profits of the business.  Bob knew that employee ownership created the opportunity to increase production and profitability. 

“I will miss his leadership and friendship.  I extend my deepest sympathies to the Midkiff ohana.”