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BORN
1937
DIED
2021
Jerald Kamiya Obituary
1937 - 2021
Celebrating the life of Jerald (Jerry) Ken Kamiya
Jerry passed away surrounded by his loved ones on September 18, 2021 at the Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara, CA. A private service was held at the Christ United Method Church in his hometown of Santa Maria, CA on October 23, 2021 to commemorate his 83 years of life.
Jerry was born on September 29, 1937 to Florence and Harry M. Kamiya Sr. in Santa Maria. He and his family spent three and a half years in the Japanese internment camps in Gila, Arizona. It is in the internment camps where Jerry spent his first years of elementary school before his family was able to return to Santa Maria. Jerry continued his education at El Camino Jr. High School and later graduated from Santa Maria High School as part of the Class of 1955. He completed his education at Allan Hancock Junior College before joining the United States Navy.
After returning from the Navy, he joined the United States Postal Service. His career with the USPS lasted 37 years, 34 of which he served as an Otis Inspector. After retiring from the USPS he assisted his childhood friend Chuck Hebard with his dealerships by traveling throughout California to conduct dealer trades for Home Motors Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and BMW. Throughout his retired years, in addition to being a dedicated husband, father, brother and friend he was able to enjoy his passions which included Classic cars, Elvis Presley, College football, and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Those left to continue his legacy include his loving wife of 59 years Dawn Kamiya, his children Jay (Allison) Kamiya, Jadene (John) Kamiya|Mauck, and Jason (Marina) Kamiya, grandchildren Jessalyn (Kurtis) Randall, Keyona, Kira, Kaylee, Jaden, Konner, and great-grandchildren Remmy, Adam, and Levi Randall.
Jerry is also survived by his siblings Harry M Kamiya Jr. (Washington), Jean Spawnhurst (Indio, CA), his brother and sister-in-laws Brian (Sally) Kurokawa, Karen Kurokawa, Betty Ann Kurokawa, and his extended family members Tom, Melena, Elene Mei, and Sofia Hsia.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Diabetes or Heart Foundation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jerald Kamiya
3 Entries
Karen Enyart Zettler
November 12, 2021
So sorry, Dawn, on the loss of your husband. I’ll be praying for you and your family. May he Rest In Peace!
Bob drake
November 11, 2021
My condolences To the Kamiya family...
Jerry was a great man and will be greatly missed....
Frances Romero
November 9, 2021
I did not know Jerald, but I know his son Jay. Jay, we are so sorry for your loss.
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