Kensei Ogata

Kensei Ogata, 94, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, in Stockton, California.

Born on June 16, 1931, in Sacramento, California, Kensei moved to Japan upon the passing of his mother in 1932.
Following World War II he immigrated back to the United States to Lodi, California in 1949. At 20 years old, he answered the call to serve during the Korean War. From 1951 to 1953, Cpl. Ogata served with distinction and was eventually awarded the Purple Heart for wounds sustained in combat.

Following his military service, Kensei pursued a career that blended skill with personal connection. In 1957, he opened Ogata's hair styling in San Francisco, eventually moving to Marin County in 1964, and his shop there in 1967. After selling the business in the 1990s, he continued working as a cosmetologist until his retirement in 2007.

Kensei shared 58 years of marriage with his beloved wife Claire until her passing in 2018. Together, they built a life rooted in love and mutual respect. He was preceded in death by his brother Hiroomi and survived by son Sho.

A Memorial Service will be held on November 3, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 2400 Oxford Way in Lodi.

Kensei will be remembered for his quiet strength, warmth, and charm. Whether serving his country or welcoming clients into his chair, he brought grace and kindness to every chapter of his life. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all who were touched by his presence.