PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSMIS) — Memorial services for the first President of the Federated States of Micronesia, the late Tosiwo Nakayama, were scheduled yesterday at 9 a.m. in Chuuk.
Nakayama died on March 29 in Hawaii. He was 75.
The remains of the former president returned to his home state of Chuuk on April 14, where his body laid in repose at the Nakayama compound in Nantaku.
The memorial services, as arranged, began at 9 a.m. with the procession of the casket from the Nakayama compound to the Saram en Chuuk Hall for a service of tributes and reminiscences.
It was expected that dignitaries and officials from national, state and neighboring Micronesian governments along with various regional officials would attend the services.
Opening and welcoming remarks were expected to be delivered by President Joseph J. Urusemal and Chuuk Gov. Wesley Simina.
The eulogy was delivered by a former colleague and dear friend of the late President Nakayama, the first Speaker of the FSM Congress — Bethwel Henry.
Former FSM President Leo A. Falcam, Speaker Peter M. Chrisitan and James T. Stovall III were expected to deliver tributes and reminiscences.
There were special remarks from the family delivered by Ambassador Masao Nakayama.
The memorial services were scheduled for 11 a.m. at the Holy Family Church in Nepukos and immediately following were the funeral services and interment at the family cemetery in Mwan village.
The memorial services were expected to be broadcast live throughout the FSM.