Ikuo "Sam" Okuma

Okuma, Ikuo "Sam"
passed away on March 12, 2011 at age 93. He was born May 26, 1917 in San Gabriel, California. He was married to his late wife, Hideko, for 65 years. He leaves his daughter Jane, her husband Chris Gordon, and granddaughter Mika Gordon; his son Phillip, his wife Betty, and grandson Brad; and his son Don. He is also survived by his brother Tom (Toshi) Okuma and his wife Margie and their children Faith, Amy, Glenn, and Wayne and their families. He is also survived by his sister Hisaye Kuge and her children Shirley and Jane and their families. Three other sisters Chieno, Yoshie, and Kazuko preceded him in death. Sam was the first son of Oinosuke and Asano (nee - Kaganemaru) Okuma. His grandparents were Ikumatsu Yoshino and Nobu Okuma. As his grandmother Nobu's family had no sons, Sam's parents took his grandmother's maternal surname of Okuma to carry on the Okuma name. Prior to moving to Arizona in 1929, the family lived in Texas. In 1941, Sam graduated from the University of Arizona's College of Engineering with a degree in mechanical engineering, Magna Cum Laude with high distinction. His career in engineering was delayed because of the curfew imposed during World War II to those of Japanese descent. Sam could not return to his home within the curfew so was forced to quit his job. At the end of the war in 1945, his family moved to a farm in Glendale, Arizona. Sam became responsible for operating the family farm. During this period, he married Hideko "Helen" Matsuo who was interned at the Gila River Internment Camp but was allowed to leave to marry Sam. Sam eventually went to work as an engineer for Bob Lockerby and Associates, specializing in design of commercial air conditioning systems. He went on to several other firms before retiring in 1972. Sam had a big personality, an inquisitive mind, and a great sense of humor. His many interests and hobbies included hunting, fishing, and building and flying radio-controlled airplanes. He enjoyed slalom water-skiing and skiing on a stool on top of a saucer. He found a creative outlet in building metal sculptures such as tables, chairs, and Kokopelli figures. He was an avid golfer and played daily until he was 90. He was most proud of his three hole-in-one trophies. His greatest pride and joy were his grandson Brad and granddaughter Mika whom he cherished. A celebration of Sam's life will be held at West Resthaven Funeral Home, 6450 W. Northern Avenue in Glendale, Arizona on Saturday, March 26, 2011 at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley - Fund Development, 1510 E. Flower Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85014.