Goodbye to a Hawaii Industry Colleague

Travel-industry veteran Kirk Smith, vice president of sales and marketing at Hawaiian Airlines, died Sunday while riding the waves off Waikiki. He was highly regarded in the travel industry for his passion for—and dedication to—Hawaii throughout his long career. "Kirk was responsible for keeping our product Hawaiian and for developing our brand in such a way that it remains true to our local roots and appealing to our customers," says Mark Dunkerley, the carrier's president and CEO. Smith was previously with Starr Seigle Communications, where his duties included overseeing the Kauai Visitors Bureau account. "Kirk was never afraid to speak his mind and always did what was best for his client," says Sue Kanoho, KVB executive director. "I respected him and considered him a good friend," she adds. "I will miss him, and the state is grieving the loss of a great talent in our visitor industry ohana."