William “Bill” Arballo, 92, of Encinitas, Calif., formerly of Hilo, died Dec. 8 at home. Born in Nestor, Calif., he was a retired journalist who worked as a correspondent for United Press International and Copley News Service in Hilo, several
William “Bill” Arballo, 92, of Encinitas, Calif., formerly of Hilo, died Dec. 8 at home. Born in Nestor, Calif., he was a retired journalist who worked as a correspondent for United Press International and Copley News Service in Hilo, several California newspapers, including as a columnist for Coast News in San Diego County, former mayor of Del Mar, Calif., U.S. Army World War II veteran awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Combat Medical Badge, co-founder and first president of Big Island Press Club and served in numerous community organizations. While in Hilo, he interviewed visiting President Richard Nixon and Vice President Gerald Ford, covered Apollo astronauts training at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for moon landings and was a plaintiff in a successful lawsuit against Hawaii County for more openness in meetings and records. Services pending. Memorial donations to Big Island Press Club, San Dieguito Heritage Museum or Hospice by the Sea Solana Beach. He is survived by daughters, Loreta Arballo and Teresa Arballo (Don) Barth; sister, Mary Magana; a granddaughter and two great-grandchildren.
Marion Reyoko Nakamura, 84, of Hilo died Dec. 6 at Life Care Center of Hilo. Born in Lanai City, Lanai, she was a retired secretary for the state Department of Education, member of Taishoji Soto Mission, HGEA Retirees Unit and Nohea Street Kumiai. Private services. Survived by daughter, Ann (Jon) Sagawa of Tacoma, Wash.; son, Mark Nakamura of Hilo; two granddaughters; nieces and nephews. Arrangements by Dodo Mortuary.
