Freshman Hawaii Rep. Mark Takai Dies After Battle With Cancer

— -- Freshman Rep. Mark Takai, D-Hawaii, has passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer, his office confirmed in a statement Wednesday.

The congressman was 49 and died at home in Honolulu surrounded by family, according to his office. He announced in May that he would not seek reelection due to his illness.

Takai, who served on the House Armed Services Committee and Small Business Committee, also spent 17 years in the Hawaii National Guard.

His House colleagues mourned his passing Wednesday.