 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As many of you know, my father Kenneth Tamai, passed away on June 30, 2004 at 2:00 am in Honolulu Hawaii. He was found to have a very advanced cancer of the pancreas which spread to his liver and into his kidneys. He passed away just a few days after being diagnosed. He was surrounded by his family when he passed. We were all able to say our own personal goodbyes to him. His ashes were placed at the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetary of the Pacific on Honolulu, Hawaii. We brought some ashes back to be put with my mother when she passes.
He is currently a Rokudan (6th degree black belt), recognized by the Kodokan in Japan, the United States Judo Federation (USJF) and the United States Judo Inc (USJI). He continues to be recognized and honored with awards and citations for his service and dedication to the advancement and development of the sport of judo.
In addition to being survived by his wife, six children and 8 grandchildren, he is also survived by his oldest sister, Ito, and youngest bother, Yasu, as well as a host of other relatives.
We can look back at his life and easily see how much he loved his judo and his family. He leaves behind a legacy. He gave so much of himself to all that he did. His happiness was found in the experiencing of the entire journey through his life rather than a goal at the end of the path. He leaves his mark not only by the life he led, but in each one of his children. He will be greatly missed but his spirit will always live on inside of us.
On behalf of my family and myself, I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time for all of us.
We are setting a a memorial fund, in his honor, for the development of judo in this area. For those who are interested in donating to this fund please contact Kevin S. Tamai,
Thank you again
Kevin Tamai
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|