The Hilo High School Community is saddened by the passing of Barry Taniguchi on Friday, September 20th.
Mr. Taniguchi was a Viking through and through. He was a great leader, from his high school days (HHS ’65) as a student-body president and football player, to his current Chairmanship of our Hilo High School Foundation - some 50+ years later. Taniguchi continued to care for his Alma Mater since his days of transversing our Viking halls.
As the leader of KTA Superstores, he and his business have provided generous financial supports to Hilo High School over the years. He was a role model for our students and graduates as an entrepreneur, and has provided countless employment opportunities to our students, alumni, and families.
Hilo High School Principal Robert Dircks commented, “I feel it was an honor and privilege knowing Mr. Taniguchi, both as a Hilo High School alumnus, and as an advocate for our students. Although he will be missed, his legacy for his beloved high school shall continue.”
In a video interview several years ago, Mr. Taniguchi shared that: “In those days, we had only one Public High School in Hilo...I am Proud to be a Viking, and I’d like the school to come back to the Prominence that it had many years ago.”
“In his honor”, Dircks concluded, “We, the Hilo High School Ohana, will definitely continue to strive to fulfill Mr. Taniguchi’s Vision of Viking Prominence.”
Barry Taniguchi was 72 years young. Visitation for Taniguchi is 8-11 a.m. Friday, October 18, at Honpa Hongwanji Hilo Betsuin, 398 Kilauea Ave. A memorial service is at 11 a.m. with lunch to follow at the Sangha Hall. Casual attire is requested.