NikkeiWest--Northern California Japanese American Newspaper

Frank Hatsuo Nonaka, 96, passed away on July 31 in Elk Grove. Survived by daughters, Susan (Glenn Sapaden) and Judy Inouye (Alan); son Terry (Linda); and grandchildren, Ryan and Lynn Inouye. Also survived by brother Shinobu Henry Kuwamoto. Preceded in death by parents, Toshio and Taki Nonaka and wife Tatsuye Lina Nonaka. Frank started Lemon Hill Nursery in Sacramento and later Frank’s Garden Way Nursery in Yuba City where he worked side-by-side with Lina until they retired. As agreed, Lina waited for Frank under the golden oak tree and they are now holding hands through eternity.

George Kitazawa, 93, originally from San Jose, died Aug. 4, near his home in Monroeville, PA. He was preceded in death by brother Edward, sister Hannah, his parents Buemon and Kiyo of the former Kitazawa Nursery in San Jose, his uncle Gijiu and aunt Kikuno of the original Kitazawa Seed Co., and his wife Fumiko nee Makino. He is survived by his daughters Susan Kitazawa of San Francisco, Dr. Margaret Johnston-Kitazawa (Kiko) of Pahala, HI, and Katherine Ostrozovich (Dan) of Crown Point, IN, and grandchildren Man Duy (“Eric”), Mika, Ka’u, Kona, Kimiko, and Daniel. Also preceded in death by cousins Ernest Kitazawa and Rose Nunnally. Survived by cousins Mai Arbegast (Dave), June Barr, Helen Komatsu (Sakae, dec.), and Thomas Kitazawa (Harriet). He will be missed by many other relatives, friends, associates, and by his special friend Masae Morisue. George was born on May 2, 1917 in San Jose. He worked at his family’s nursery business and, as a Sea Scout, sailed on the San Francisco Bay. He constructed his own ham radio as a teenager. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley. Executive Order 9066 and his subsequent incarceration at the Manzanar Relocation Center interrupted his pursuit of higher education. It was there that he married Fumiko Makino. He later completed his Masters and PhD in the New York State College of Forestry at Syracuse University. He was employed as a research physicist at the Gillette Safety Razor Company in Boston, as a laboratory head at Borden Chemical Company in Philadelphia, and as a manager of the Forest Products Research Section in Monroeville for the Koppers Company, Inc. After his retirement he continued to work as a consultant/interpreter for U.S. - Japan technical partnerships and especially enjoyed his time working in various steel mills. Although George had many interests including fishing and whitewater canoeing, none surpassed his love for amateur radio. Better known by his call letters “NS30”, he belonged to the Japanese American Amateur Radio Society and other ham radio clubs. He had contacts across the U.S. and Canada and as far away as Brazil and Japan. His children knew not to give him a call when he was ‘on the net’ (or watching his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers.)

John Takashi Nishimi
August 6, 1932 — August 6, 2010
78-year-old Westminster resident, John T. Nishimi, passed away on August 6, 2010. John is survived by his loving wife, Nancee M. Nishimi; son, Martin (Tammy) Nishimi; daughter Julee Nishimi; grandchildren Kyle, Kara and Keaton Nishimi; brother Ralph (Ruby) Nishimi; sister Alice (George) Hirota; sister-in-law Dora C. Shibata, brother-in-law Clifford M. (Teresa) Sogi and many other cousins, nephews and nieces. John “Tak” attended elementary, junior high, and McClatchy Sr. High School in Sacramento before graduating with an Engineering Degree in Southern California. He retired in 1992 from the aerospace industry after 37 years. Services were held on Aug. 14, at Anaheim Free Methodist Church with Pastor Nancy Terada Wong officiating.

Alice Hirao Arita, resident of Oakland, died peacefully at home on Aug. 6 in Oakland. Alice was born on Sept. 19, 1919 to Jiro and Sei Kaneko in Phoenix, AZ. She graduated from Oakland Technical High School in 1938 and Heald Business College in 1939. In 1942 she married Kay Hirao and was interned at Topaz Relocation Camp in the same year. They had three children, Janice, Wayne and Milton. She was widowed in 1948. For thirty years she owned Palmer Off-Set Printing in Oakland. In 1968, she married Henry Arita. She became a widow again in February  . She is survived by her daughter, Jan (Dave) Inouye and son Wayne Hirao and preceded in death by Henry Arita, Kay Hirao, and son,”Mickey” Hirao. She leaves grandchildren, great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She will be missed by her neighbors at the Dorchester House condominium. She was an active volunteer at The Discovery Shop for the American Cancer Society and the Oakland Quota Club.

Grace Kazuyo Matsuoka
March 7, 1915 – August 17, 2010
Known by her relatives, friends and neighbors simply as “Auntie Gracie.” Grace Kazuyo Tanigawa Kawahara Matsuoka passed away Aug. 17 in Honolulu, after a battle with lung complications. She was preceded in passing by husbands Lawrence Seiichi Kawahara and Roger Haruo Matsuoka; son in law Fred Seal; granddaughter Robyn Shaw; great-granddaughter Victoria Shaw; and all her Tanigawa siblings, save one. Born March 7, 1915 in Kalihiwai, Hanalei District, Kaua‘i, her Issei father from Hiroshima Prefecture, Sakutaro Tanigawa worked with the cowboys of the Sanborn Ranch, while her Issei mother, Ayano Uneoki Tanigawa, also from Hiroshima Prefecture,  ran the family rice farm. A young Grace and the Tanigawa family relocated to the Liliha District in Honolulu. There, she attended Likelike Elementary, Kalakaua Intermediate and McKinley High Schools and earned the nick name of the “Gray Cat of Holokahana Lane” bestowed by her brother, Jack. She was known as a wicked poker,  paiute, canasta and cribbage player and well into her later years, an avid bowler. At her passing at age 95 were her two daughters, Joyce Chisato [Al] OIson of Vacaville, CA and Faith Haruyo [Fred] Seal of Emerald Hills, CA; her grand children: Sean [Nariman Nasser] Dana of San Francisco, CA and Cara Dana of Tulalip, Washington. She is further survived by her two sons, Saichi [Evelyn] Kawahara of San Francisco. CA and Lance Susumu [Edith] Kawahara of Guam; grandson, David Shaw, of Altadena CA; four great grand children: Vincent, Lia Ashley & Brian Gian Shaw, all of Altadena, CA. and Jackson Dana of San Francisco, CA; a sister, Eleanor Okubo of Honolulu; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews and their offspring.

Hanako “Michiko” Richardson, resident of Hayward passed away on Aug.19. Michiko was born Nov. 30, 1919 on Awaji Island in Japan where she worked with her brothers, sisters, and parents on the family farm. She became a United States citizen in 1959 after marrying Robert Richardson in 1955 in Kobe, Japan, and moving to Hayward in 1956. She was a homemaker and worked as a nursery planter for nearly 30 years. Michiko was an active member of her church. Michiko is survived by her son, Jed Richardson of Mountain Ranch, Calif., her daughter, Makiko Murakami, of Osaka, Japan, her ex-husband, Robert Richardson of Wilseyville, Calif., and by her grandson Noritada Murakami of Osaka, Japan, his wife and children, and by her sisters and their families in Japan.

Yosh Sakauye, born Aug. 31, 1925, passed away on Aug. 19. He is survived by his wife Keiko, daughter Susan and husband Alan, daughter Donna and husband Mark, son Ted and wife Debra, son Tom and wife Susan, granddaughters Caitlin and Jennifer, grandson Chris and step grandson Gary. He is also survived by his sisters Fumi and Mary. He was a very loving and caring husband, father, brother and friend, and will be missed. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity.

Krystal Fumiko Nakamura, resident of San Jose, entered Heaven’s gates on Aug. 20 at the age of 22, a fatality of a single car accident. Beloved daughter of Gary and Rhina Nakamura, and also survived by her sisters Jayme and Morgan.

Dr. Jin Kinoshita peacefully passed away on Aug. 20 in San Jose. Jin was internationally recognized as a researcher, administrator, professor, and advisor to many young scientists. He is a pioneer in the biochemical study of cataracts and his research continues to have a profound influence on ophthalmic biochemistry. His life-long research, which focused on treating diabetic cataracts, continues today. Jin was born in San Francisco on July 20, 1921, to a family of 4 brothers and a sister. During World War II, his family was relocated to Santa Anita Assembly Center and then to Topaz Relocation Camp in Utah. He was able to leave camp to attend Bard College of Columbia University. He received his Ph.D. in biological chemistry from Harvard University and joined the Harvard Medical School faculty. In 1971, Jin was appointed chief of the Laboratory of Vision Research in the newly formed National Eye Institute and 10 years later became scientific director of basic and clinical research. He retired from NEI in 1990 and moved to El Macero, Calif., to be a Clinical Research Professor of ophthalmology at U.C. Davis. His awards include the Friedenwald Award, Proctor Medal, Alcon Research Institute Award, honorary doctorate from Oakland University (Michigan), and Distinguished Service Award of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, as well as a two-time nominee for the Noble Prize. He was also the recipient of the Japan’s medal of honor, The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays. His wife, Kay Kimura Kinoshita, predeceases him. He is survived by his sister, Emiko Chino of Chicago, and was preceded in death by his brothers Reiju, Satoshi, and Tadashi. His family and friends throughout the world will miss his humor, humility, and intelligence.

Sue Aoyagi, resident of Menlo Park, passed away peacefully at her Menlo Park home Aug 21, after a long illness. Sue was interned as a child at Topaz Relocation Center during World War II. She received her teaching credential from San Francisco State University and taught at Theuerkauf Elementary School in Mountain View for many years prior to her retirement. She had many fond memories of her experience working with students and fellow teachers. She continued her passion for teaching in retirement tutoring Froilan Malit, the son of her best friend, Amy Gray, in English composition when he first arrival from the Philippines four years ago. One of Sue’s proudest moments was Froilan’s graduation this June with honors from Cornell University. Sue was sister to George, Helen, Mich and survived by nephews David, Douglas, Paul, Timothy, Geoffrey, niece Melissa; six grandnephews; her beloved dogs, Geordie and Bobbie. Preceded in death by her parents Shigeru and Shige Aoyagi; brother Shig.

Yasuko Hiraki, 92, resident of San Mateo, passed away peacefully on Aug. 21 in her San Mateo home. She is survived by her husband, Henry, and their four children, Susan, Gary, Joan and Ken.

Hideo Katsumoto, resident of Fremont, passed away on Aug. 23, at the age of 88. He was the son of Jusuke and Aki Katsumoto and for most of his life resided in Fremont, where he ran a farm in Decoto for many years. He is survived by siblings Toshiko Shimoura, Kiyoshi (Emiko), Tomiye Miyamoto, and Tak (Eleanor), and eight nieces and nephews, and 10 grandnieces and nephews. Private memorial services were held under the auspices of the Southern Alameda Co. Buddhist Church.

Tokihiko Ralph Doi, resident of Palo Alto passed away on Aug. 23, at the age of 87. He was predeceased by his wife, Kiyoko Doi. Loving father of Steven Doi (wife Debbie) of Los Altos and Sharon Funakoshi (husband John) of San Gabriel. He was the proud Grandfather of Danielle and David Doi. He will be truly missed by family and friends. Ralph was an active member of the Bonsai Club, Yuwakai, and the Tomonikai at the Palo Alto Buddhist Temple.

Dr. Hideo Hero Yonenaka passed away on Aug. 26 at the age of 84. He was a loving, compassionate man who’s spirit was so, “centered” and peaceful, that he truly touched those he knew. Simply put: He was special. Hideo was born in San Jose on July 7, 1926. The son of a strawberry farmer, the family lived in Palo Alto until they were put in a Japanese internment camp during World War II, in 1942. The Yonenaka’s would not regain their freedom for four years. The experience could have stained Hideo’s outlook on life, yet he chose to listen to the advice of his mother and his Reverend who told him: “It is okay to get angry, but get over it, and learn from it.” From that point, Hideo made peace with the past. He credits Reverend Fukuda and his deep faith in the Konko religion. Hideo earned a degree from U.C. Berkeley with a B.A. in Zoology, a M.A. in Bacteriology ; and a Ph.D. in Microbial Physiology from the University of Southern California. He also served in the United States Army. Hideo spent 30 years as a Professor of Microbiology at San Francisco State University. He respected the environment, and independence, and also enjoyed cheering on his hometown teams: the 49ers and the SF Giants. He adored his wife, and encouraged his 2 children to follow their dreams, yet everyone who knew him understood that those 2 little granddaughters stole the show, and filled his heart. Hideo is survived by his wife of 45 years, Shanna Yonenaka, his son, Chris Yonenaka, his daughter, Kimberly Lonergan, son-in-law, Kevin Lonergan, his two grandchildren, Lindsey and Katelyn, and his sister Lily Yonenaka.

Nikki Kiyomi Yee, a native of Sacramento, born Sept. 6, 1952, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family and friends on Aug. 29, after a brief, yet courageous battle with Lymphoma. Nikki was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School and Sacramento City College. She worked for the Department of General Services, Office of Public School Construction and retired in August 2008 after more than 35 years of dedicated state service. Nikki’s gift and joy in life was to provide care and comfort to others. She never put herself first, but was always concerned for those around her. Forever rooting for the underdog, she always managed to find the good and positive in every situation. Her vibrant and energetic spirit was displayed through her wild sense of humor. She was loved by so many and will be genuinely missed and remembered by all whose lives she’s touched. Nikki is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Richton, and was a dedicated daughter, mother, and grandmother. She will be deeply missed by her mother, Kathryn Uchigoshi, her three loving sons, Jasen (Heather), Justin, and Jarret, and her precious grandchildren, Madeleine, Dylan, Camille, and Collin. She also leaves behind her loving mother-in-law, Kwoon Yee, and numerous brother and sister-in-laws, uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews and nieces.

Michikazu Nakai passed away peacefully on Aug. 29 at the age of 89. Survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Mitsuko, his children, Ellen, Eric, Amy, Anne (Tim Dickens), David, Janet (Richard) Lee, Tricia (Harlan Wong), Karen (Mike) Kagehiro, Marty (Helen), his many grandchildren, and his brother, Hirokazu (Grace). He will be greatly missed by his loving family. Born in Spokane, WA., he settled in San Francisco where he raised his family. He will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. A private memorial service will be held.

Charles “Chuck” Uyeda, resident of San Jose, passed away on Sept. 3, at the age of 82. Dearly beloved husband of Lillian “Lee” Uyeda. Devoted father of Kevin Uyeda and Kim (John) Meglio. Loving grandfather of Carly and Russell Meglio. Survived by his sister Marilyn Ito, and brothers Roy (Dorie) Uyeda and Albert (Fumi) Uyeda. He was Uncle Chuck to numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Woodrow (Woody) Ishikawa
Nov. 3, 1917 - Sept. 4, 2010
Died peacefully at home where he was born and lived his entire life, Woody, as everyone knew him always had a smile and I know he and Mom are smiling down on us now. His passion in life became his family, David and wife Chris Ishikawa; grandchildren Neil (Leslie) Ishikawa, Tammy (Ron) Welden and Kelly Ishikawa and of course a loving grandfather to his six wonderful great-grandchildren – Mitchell, Anthony, Taylor and Nicholas, River and Elle. Woody was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years - Takeko Mary, his brothers and sisters; Sachiko (Ruby) Oyama; Joe, Mary and Jin Ishikawa, and a long line of cousins, nieces and nephews. He retired from McClellan A.F.B where he worked as a computer programmer, he also worked as a farmer and gardener on the property. After retirement, he and mom were avid travelers going to Europe, Asia, Hawaii, Alaska and more, not only traveling but being a golfer he tried to keep up with mom, which was hard to do. One of their favorite things to do was DANCE – they knew almost every dance step and belonged to a dance club that met regularly. As a member of the Boy Scouts of America he was a Vigil member in the Order of the Arrow, a Silver Bear recipient, he loved going camping and being in the outdoors, this joy was passed on to his son David and grandson Neil. In lieu of flowers , donations may be made in his name to the Boy Scouts of America, Golden Empire Council. A memorial service celebrating his life is set for Sept. 18, 2:00 PM at the Sacramento Japanese United Methodist Church, 6929 Franklin Blvd. Sacramento.

Toshiko Kawaguchi Togasaki, resident of San Jose, passed away on Sept. 5 Survived by husband Shinobu, children John & Ann, and sisters Yasuko Kawaguchi & Akiko Maie.