Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 28, Number 7, 1 Iulai 2010 — In memanam he hoʻomanaʻo [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

In memanam he hoʻomanaʻo

William S. Richardson 1920-2010

As the state's Chief Justice for 16 years, William S. Richardson believed the law should fight the battles for those who don't have the mannower and willnower to fi2ht on their own. This concent of fair-

ness coupled with freedom was the foundation of this legendary figure in Hawai'i history. Richardson, nicknamed "CJ" for Chief Justice, died June 21 at the age of 90. His colorful career included tenures as Chairman of the Hawai'i Democratic Party, Lieutenant Governor under Gov. John Burns, Chief Justice of the Hawai'i State Supreme Court and Bishop Estate Trustee. Growing up in humble beginnings, Richardson committed himself to help the working class. After graduating from Roosevelt High School, he earned a bachelor's degree in business and economics from the University of Hawai'i and a juris doctorate fromthe University of Cincinnati. The Richardson Court helped expand Hawaiian rights, and one of the most influential decisions he made as the head of the state's highest court was upholding Hawaiian

laws on access to kuleana lands. In Palama v. Sheehan, his court ruled that Sheehan had the right to access his kuleana land contained within Palama's property. As a partHawaiian, Richardson always ensured that Hawaiian traditions were not forgotten in the laws of the state. He was the first part-Hawaiian to serve as Chief Justice. His biggest accomplishment was establishing a law school at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa after fighting for decades to provide legal education for Hawai'i's residents. The William S. Richardson School of Law was named his honor before he retired as Chief Justice in 1982. Richardson is survived by his son, two daughters, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. ■

Gov. Linda Lingle has ordered flags to fly at halfstaff on July 9, when an 11:30 a.m. memorial service will be held starting with respects from 8 to 1 1 a.m. at St. Andrew's Cathedral, 229 Queen Emma Square. Burial will be private. Because of space constraints at the cathedral, the public is encouraged to pay respects July 8 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the William S. Richardson School of Law, Moot Courtroom, 25 15 Dole St. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the William S. RichardsonRealizing the Dream fund at the law school.

Photo: Courtesy ofBrad Goda Photography