The story of Senator Gilbert Kahele is inspirational and heart warming. In 1942, "Gil" was born in a grass shack just south of the Hawaiian fishing village of Miloli'i. After graduating Hilo High, he served in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1960-1964. He then graduated from Laney College and served as Director of Public Works at Pohakuloa Training Area for 33 years. In 2011, he was appointed as Senator for the 2nd District, encompassing the communities of Hilo, Puna and Ka‘u on Hawai‘i Island. Senator Kahele passed away in 2015 leaving a legacy of a dedicated public servant with an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Big Island residents and visitors alike.
The Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area is a living testament to the late senator’s vision and efforts. The park was transferred to the county from the state in 2014 through efforts spearheaded by the late Kahele and others. On May 15, 2024, what would have been the Senator's 82nd birthday, a new sign was installed at the park to honor him and share his amazing story.