Roy Masayuki Nishi

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San Jose State University

Roy Nishi Obituary

Roy Masayuki Nishi Nov. 3, 1945 to June 1, 2009 San Jose, CA, Roy M. Nishi died Monday, June 1 2009 after bravely battling esophageal cancer for the past year. His memory is cherished by his wife, Gerry, his son, Jon-Paul, and his large circle of friends and family. Roy was born in 1945 in Tule Lake, California. He was an accomplished high school athlete and possessed creative abilities that led to a successful career in industrial design and mechanical engineering. He was both a traditionalist and an indomitable individual spirit. After beginning his education in design at San Jose State University, he completed apprenticeships at design firms in Tokyo and Milan (without the benefit of fluency in either language). He was well traveled, which nurtured his open-mindedness and broad views. Always easy to laugh, both at life's general travails and himself, he continually uplifted those around him. His positive personality lent itself well to frequent gatherings at our home. The fact that he was a gifted chef kept everyone coming back for more. People loved to golf with him, particularly his brothers-in-law. He was a truly selfless person who unashamedly loved his family and doted upon them continually. His greatest joy was found in caring for his family and watching them thrive. Please feel free to donate to your local United Way in Roy's name if so moved.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Jose Mercury News on Jun. 6, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Roy Nishi

6 Entries

John Larsen

June 12, 2009

The news of Roy's passing just arrived to me and I am extremely saddened to hear it. I have missed Roy's company since my move to France but was so looking forward to seeing him again, hopefully in his beloved Hawaii! Now he is missed even more knowing this will not happen! I miss our conversations, his reminiscing about his travels to Europe, his smile, his laughter and his hardheadedness at times.
My most sincere condolences to his family. Roy will be missed!

Thelma Barajas

June 8, 2009

I just heard of Roys passing. My brothers and I were just talking about him and his family. We grew up in the same neigborhood in East San Jose and went to Mayfair school. His parents were the nices people and they treated my mother very well when she went into their store on Alum Rock ave. I can still see Roy working behind the meat counter, always with a smile Part of our life is gone but will be never forgotten. Our respects to his famiy
The Torres Family (Thelma Torres Barajas

Alfredo Gutierrez

June 8, 2009

Hello, my name is Mike Gutierrez, and I am writing on behalf of my father, Alfredo Gutierrez (Freddy), who knew the Nishi family, Roy, Dick, May and the rest of the family when they had the little grocery store on Alum Rock Ave. My dad worked at the B & H Garage with Checker Brindos, which was next to the little grocer. I my self knew Roy as a young boy. On behalf of my father and the Gutierrez family, we send our sympathy and wants the family to know how much they all meant to us. Roy was a great guy and will be remembered by all of us. We are very sorry for the families loss. May the Lord give you the comfort you need at this time.

Gloria M Porter

June 7, 2009

I just heard this morning of Roy's passing. I am saddened to hear of your great loss. My name is Gloria Marcella Porter. I grew up in the same neighborhood that the Nishi family did. Roy and I went to the same elementary school (Mayfair). My immediate family, as well as aunts, uncles and cousin did our grocery shopping at the little grocery store owned by Roy's parents, (where Roy also worked as he got older). The entire family were great people. I just wanted to add a little something for the family. My maiden name was Marcy Hernandez. I have a class picture in kindergarten of Roy, you might have the same photo, if not I would be most pleased to share it with you. Roy was such a great all around human being. Again, I'm so very sorry for your loss.

Rich Billig

June 7, 2009

Roy's talents as a designer were remarkable - while he was a master of the latest technology, he could still craft nearly anything by hand. He was both a gentleman and a gentle man. He wore a genuine smile and good cheer, even in difficult situations, that brightened the day of anyone working with him. He is already greatly missed.

Steve Mix

June 6, 2009

Roy will be truely missed by all his family and friends. Our prayers go out to the entire family. Steve and Darlene Mix

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