The IAM Union is mourning the passing of longtime IAM leader and activist Samson Po’omaihealani, affectionately known as “Sammy Poo,” who passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026, in Hilo, Hawai‘i. He was 85.
Sam dedicated decades of his life to representing IAM members and working people throughout Hawai‘i and the airline industry. Beginning his career with United Airlines in 1963, he went on to become an IAM shop steward and later an IAM Grand Lodge Representative in the Transportation Department.
Throughout his union career, Sam represented IAM members at United Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Aloha Airlines, Philippine Airlines and other carriers. His commitment to fairness, integrity and strong representation earned him the respect of generations of IAM members and fellow labor leaders.
“Sam Po’omaihealani dedicated his life to his family, his community and the working people he represented. His decades of service to the IAM and airline workers across Hawai‘i and beyond leave a lasting legacy,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “Sam understood that being a union representative was about more than a job, it was about standing with working people and fighting for fairness. The IAM family extends our deepest condolences to Christine and the entire Po’omaihealani family. We will remember Sam with gratitude and honor the example he set for all of us.”
“Sam Po’omaihealani was part of a generation of IAM leaders who understood that serving our members meant showing up, standing with workers and fighting for their livelihoods,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “His decades of service to airline workers and to this Union left an important mark on the IAM. We honor his commitment, his leadership and the many members whose lives he touched throughout his career.”
Sam also served on the Hawaiian Airlines Board of Directors, becoming the longest-serving director in the company’s history.
Born April 15, 1941, in Honolulu, Sam grew up in Hawai‘i and graduated from McKinley High School in 1959. A talented athlete, he played football at the University of Hawai‘i before an automobile accident ended his playing career. He later shared his passion for the sport as a coach at several Hawai‘i high schools.
Beyond his union and professional accomplishments, Sam was known for his strength of character, generosity and ability to connect with people. His impact extended well beyond the workplace, leaving a lasting impression on IAM members, labor leaders and communities throughout Hawai‘i.
Sam is survived by his wife, Christine (Heath); sons Scott and Christopher and their families; daughter Kara Tejada and her children; sister Dorcas; grandchildren and great-grandsons; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his son Peter.
The IAM extends its deepest condolences to Sam’s family, friends, former colleagues and the many IAM members whose lives he touched throughout his decades of service.
Samson Po’omaihealani leaves behind a legacy of union leadership, service and dedication to working people that will not be forgotten.
Celebrations of Life
Hawai‘i Island:
Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Hilo Yacht Club
77 Laehala Street
Hilo, Hawai‘i
O‘ahu:
Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026
4 – 8 p.m.
Ke‘ehi Lagoon Memorial
2685 N. Nimitz Highway
Honolulu, Hawai‘i
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