Ben Matsumoto

1920 - 2013

Ben (Benny) Tsutomu Matsumoto

Born: September 16, 1920

Place: McIntosh (Eastern) Washington. Parents: Senzo & Suma Matsumoto

Our Beloved Father, "Daddy Ben" suddenly left us on November 23, 2013. Although Dad is greatly missed, he is finally free: where he can see again (blind for 5 years), walk and even run -- as the wonderful athlete and [good] sportsman that he was.

Benny is survived by his youngest sister (of four siblings), Mary Chizuko Matsumoto; Pat Kimiko whom with he would have celebrated 69 years of marriage on 12/26/13; only Daughter, Dr. Patty Joyce Matsumoto (Dr. Mike Conlan); only Son, Michael Ben Matsumoto (Luanne) and grandchildren, Ty, Nic and Rosie Matsumoto.

Daddy Ben was a proud Nisei (2nd generation Japanese American) who was decorated during WWII and the Korean War. While the Matsumoto and Pat's (Nakamoto) families were interned at Camp Minidoka in Hunt, Idaho -- Ben joined the famous 442nd "GO for BROKE!" and 100th Regimental Combat Team, serving in Italy and France.

Before "joining up" Dad had been an outstanding student/athlete at Queen Anne High School, serving as Senior Class V.P., Letterman Club President, star quarterback (under later Lt. Gov. John Cherberg) and "Ichiro-like" outfielder -- through all this, Ben remained extremely modest. Trained s a typographer on the "GI Bill," Dad enjoyed working at the Seattle TIMES for many years.

In addition to being an elite athlete, sportsman (fishing, camping & skiing) and wonderful/caring Father -- Ben was just a Great Guy with a big smile, whom everyone liked immediately.

Daddy Ben did not want us to "make a fuss" (like having a funeral) but the Matsumoto Family wanted to bring closure to a long, beautiful, fun-filled 93 years of Life and celebrate this with Benny's friends.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, December 14 at 10am. Location: Seattle (Betsuin) Buddhist Church, Address: 1427 South Main Street ~ Seattle

As a Decorated Soldier, Sgt. Ben T. Matsumoto will have a Military Burial at 2pm, with Fort Lewis Honor Guard, who will "retire" Dad's flag. Location: Washelli Cemetery Address: 11111 Aurora Avenue North ~ Seattle

Gratitude for everyone's compassion & support;) Pat, Mike & Patty Matsumoto.