Richard Marks 1929-2008
Wednesday December 17, 2008
Richard Marks died on December 9, 2008 at the age of 79. Most of you have never heard of him. In Richard's own words, he was "a leper." He was much more than that.
His voice was just a little above a whisper in later years, but for many years it was the strongest voice in Hawaii for the rights of those who suffered from Hansen's Disease, more popularly known as leprosy. Through his efforts the former settlement on the Kalaupapa Peninsula of Molokai will forever be preserved and managed by the National Park Service.
For over 50 years, Richard and his wife, Gloria, have owned and operated Damien Tours which escorts small groups of visitors through Kalaupapa showing them the historic buildings and grave sites and sharing their personal stories of the people who for over 100 years were taken from their families and exiled to the stark and isolated peninsula that juts out from Molokai's northern coast.
Find our more about this extraordinary man in our tribute Richard Marks 1929-2008.
His voice was just a little above a whisper in later years, but for many years it was the strongest voice in Hawaii for the rights of those who suffered from Hansen's Disease, more popularly known as leprosy. Through his efforts the former settlement on the Kalaupapa Peninsula of Molokai will forever be preserved and managed by the National Park Service.
For over 50 years, Richard and his wife, Gloria, have owned and operated Damien Tours which escorts small groups of visitors through Kalaupapa showing them the historic buildings and grave sites and sharing their personal stories of the people who for over 100 years were taken from their families and exiled to the stark and isolated peninsula that juts out from Molokai's northern coast.
Find our more about this extraordinary man in our tribute Richard Marks 1929-2008.
About 12 years ago I was one of the fortunate individuals who met Mr. Marks as he was our driver/guide on a tour in which I took about 20 senior citizens from Hilo to Molokai. Our trip to Kalaupapa was our highlight.
Mr. Marks was a true gem as he explained the history of Kalauapapa as only he could. With respect, with passion and with true heart. Molokai and Hawaii has lost a true treasure.
Richard was a true treasure, and I cried when I read of his passing (I was looking up tour info for a friend going to Maui). He was our tour guide in 2003. My husband and I enjoyed his insights, frankness, and honesty during the tour so much that our tour lasted an additional 1 1/2 hours past the end time!
Richard was an open speaker, and his words touched my soul. History is important, but the way he spoke, he brought the history of Kalaupapa to life–so powerful and real. The inclusion of his family being taken away one member at a time because of the disease brought it home for me; I got it; I could feel some of the pain and fear that became every day life.
We took a picture with his Ford truck, and Richard also shared a guava with me–a special treat that day after the long hike down. I very much enjoyed talking story with him.
God bless you Richard, and peace to your family always.
I Love mr.Marks!