Darryl Tsujimoto Obituary

Darryl Tsujimoto Darryl Tsujimoto passed unexpectedly on Monday, May 1 while on duty at the age of 41. Darryl was a San Francisco police officer for 15 years and had been at the helm of the department's canine unit since April 1999. He served at the Northern, Mission, Bayview and Park stations, with the Tenderloin Task Force and had worked in narcotics and vice and member of the specialist team. He is survived by his parents, Sam and Tina Tsujimoto; sister, June; fiancée, Sonia Rosenberger; trusted K-9 partners, Barak and Loki; and many friends and family members. A viewing is scheduled for Saturday, May 6, noon-8 p.m. at the Sunset View Cemetery Association at the corner of Colusa and Fairmount, El Cerrito (510) 525-5111. A memorial is scheduled for Sunday, May 7 at 11 a.m. at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium, 94 Grove Street, San Francisco. During his lifetime, Darryl had always wanted to set up a fund in the memory of his first shepherd, Whompus, for charitable purposes that benefited other animals. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to the Whompus Tsujimoto Fund at P.O. Box 635, Alamo, CA. 94507 in both Darryl and Whompus's memories. Sunset View Mortuary (510) 525-5111

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Published by Contra Costa Times on May 5, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Darryl Tsujimoto

15 Entries

John Tanabe

April 29, 2025

To this day I tell others about you. You taught me how to think like a dog. Easy for you since I know you had canine DNA.

You didn't know him, but he was my second K9, Zorba. Typical Mal and best boy. He passed 14 years to the day after you. May 1st is a day I will never forget.

Aloha Brother and God bless.

John Tanabe

April 29, 2024

John Tanabe

April 29, 2024

Fel Cruz

May 3, 2007

I never knew Darryl Sonia, but I know how much you miss him and love him. My thoughts are with you and his family.

Laurie Stoerkel

June 13, 2006

Darryl was a wonderful man. Sonia, my heart aches for you and the loss you must feel.

Aaron Hardy

May 11, 2006

It is hard to find the words to express how deeply saddened Dana and I are by Darryl's passing. The shock and disbelief are overpowering.

Darryl was the "Godfather" of my former partner Harry. The few times I had the opportunity to train with Darryl felt more like playing than training. Darryl really understood the relationship between dogs and their handlers and trained to foster that relationship. He really spoke to the true nature of what the K9 team is all about.

Darryl's kindness was abundant and unabashed. You could try with every fiber of your being to return his kindness, but could not match the ease or grace of Darryl's generosity.

Darryl, thank you so much for the simple things you did to touch the lives of so many. Dana and I could never thank you enough for your compassion and understanding in helping us find a home for Harry. We have wept for you and keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Please continue to watch over Harry -and all K9's active and retired- as you rest eternally in God's saving grace.

John Tanabe

May 9, 2006

To Sonia, Mr. and Mrs. Tsujimoto and the Tsujimoto family,

I met Darryl just over two years ago. I was fresh out of K9 school and had no idea what I was doing. A year later, Darryl conducted my annual certification. My successfull completion was due in large part to his patience and guidance.

Before my transfer to Sacramento in February, I worked and trained with Darryl in San Francisco. The last time was in early February when he called to meet me for coffee. I had just hung up the phone when I encountered a man with a knife. I had just called for another car when Darryl drove up. Without hesitating and in his typical take-charge style, Darryl, all 150 pounds, took the guy down and placed him in handcuffs. Afterwards Darryl said, "I can always count on you for an exciting coffee break."

The last time I saw Darryl was at a memorial service in Nevada for a K9 killed in the line of duty. The officer who lost that K9 partner was there Sunday to say farewell to Darryl.

There are many stories and memories of Darryl, all of them good, the least of which were his infectious smile and laughter. Maybe some day I can share them with you. For now, please try and take comfort knowing people were better after meeting Darryl. I am one of them.

God bless and comfort you.

Joe G

May 8, 2006

I remember the first day we met, we started talking about dogs and hit it off. You have been a great friend and a true inspiration to those that new you. I will miss the fishing trips and road trips, and showing off our new gadgets. I still cant believe your gone..I will miss you dearly friend..

May 5, 2006

On behalf of the Connecticut Police Work Dog Association, I would like to express our deepest regards and sympathy to the family, friends and fellow officers of Sergeant Darryl Tsujimoto. Darryl, you may be gone, but you will NEVER be forgotten. Rest in peace blue angel and thank you for your service.

James A. Cortina

Director

Connecticut Police Work Dog Assoc.

Cathy Nemeth Rodeheffer

May 5, 2006

Dear Sam and Tina,

I am so saddened by the passing of Darryl. I pray for his peace and your peace, and that you will experience God's comfort and a strong sense of His presence at this time. Many thoughts and prayers sent your way with love.

Central Shop's Kids Day

May 5, 2006

Central Shop's Kids Day

May 5, 2006

Carol Williams-Skaggs

May 5, 2006

The K9 world has lost a great friend and advocate. I had the pleasure of meeting with Darryl several times, and have never met a man who was so enthusiastic about his profession. He was a joy to watch when working with his dogs. My sympathies are with his family.

Pamela Humphrey

May 5, 2006

My husband and I had the pleasure of meeting Officer Tsujimoto at our home when an unfortunate incident happened with our family pet. He was so kind and concerned about the situation. We are saddened to hear about his passing. We will keep his family in our prayers. God Bless.

Mark Chinen

May 5, 2006

Tsujimoto family,` I am shocked and sadden by the loss of a good, dedicated and loyal friend and man. But, I know he is now in Heaven training God's canines and being comfort by him. Please accept my deepest sympathy and condolences.

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