Former Rochester mayor Chuck Hazama has died

Chuck Hazama, one of the longest serving mayors in Rochester history, died on Sunday. He was 89.

His family said the former mayor had been suffering from a recent stroke and declining health due to Alzheimer's disease.

The Rochester City Council paused its meeting on Monday for a moment of silence to honor Hazama. A number of local dignitaries also put out statements remembering the city’s 42nd mayor.

Mayor Kim Norton described Hazama as a “fun, energetic mayor,” while State Sen. Carla Nelson remembered him as “kind, wise and affirming.”

“I will never forget my nervousness when headed to his office, my first meeting with an elected [official], to bring a park issue to him,” recalled Nelson. “His genuine smile and joy immediately put me at ease and he encouraged me. Chuck was a friend to all.”

Hazama, a native of Hawaii, served eight consecutive two-year terms as Rochester mayor from 1979 to 1995. During his tenure, he oversaw the citywide flood control project, the establishment of Rochesterfest, and the city being named Money Magazine’s best place to live. Prior to becoming mayor, Hazama worked as executive director for the local YMCA.

“Chuck embodied the Aloha spirit of his Hawaiian roots and was a compassionate and dedicated civic leader,” reads his obituary from Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes. “He motivated others with his effervescent personality, great sense of humor and bright smile.”

A service celebrating Hazama’s life will be held in June 2022 at the Congregational Church in Rochester.

Cover photo courtesy Jonathunder / Wikimedia Commons