JAMES H. TAKEMORI

To the family, condolences. Jimmy was my Sensei at Washington Judo Club in the late 60’s. Learning from him, your uncle Edwin stayed with me thru College. In my senior year, I competed in and placed second in the all Oregon State University Judo Championships. When I competed, his and my code word was 442, “Go for Broke” the motto of the 442nd RCT of which your dad was a member of. I have since completed a career in the military, and much else, but the 442nds motto remains as well as...

I find myself in these hard times missing Sensei Takemori more and more. I was fortunate enough to have incredible private instruction from Sensei Takemori for almost two years in Alexandria in the late 1990s. Along with Carlos Vasquez we had a weekly 3 hour Tuesday workout. I was a white belt, Carlos a Nikyu. As heavyweights he took it to us. Judo became my escape from playing minor league hockey. Those days his instruction was to make us assassins! Never easy on us..me, “Monster Baby”.....

My wonderful friend, Jimmy, is gone. But his memory will live on in his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

I was so saddened to hear of Jim's passing and want to extend my deepest sympathy to you, Helen, and all the girls and their families. I have fond memories of Jim as my son's Sensei for many years. Our family is so thankful he was a part of our lives.

Our hearts and thoughts are with the family during this time. His contributions to the world of judo were great, but the legacy he leaves behind in his children and grandchildren are greater. We will cherish our memories and thankful to be a part of his life.

A true martial arts master who always practiced the ultimate technique of being kind to his neighbors. May God be with his family and all those who mourn his passing.

We remember seeing Mr. Takemori at many of the girls' games at TC Williams. He always had a smile. Seems like yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

I was a little runt who first met Jimmy at the Washington Judo Club in the 1950s. He was as nice to me as he was to the really talented guys like Jim Bregman who eventually won an olympic medal in Tokyo. What a man and what a smile! I will never forget him.

Mike McCarthy

The Takemori family is in my thoughts and prayers. Everyone in the judo world will miss Jimmy's smile, positive attitude and his influence.

Warmest regards,

Tom Masterson