Arthur (Art) Masaaki Irizawa

On September 29, 2022, our beloved father, Papa, Jichan, and dearest friend, Arthur ("Art") Masaaki Irizawa passed away and left us heartbroken. He left behind a life well lived, filled with memorable family moments, and adventures that kept him on the go throughout his years. Born in B.C., then interned in Tashme during WWII, Art's ties with the Japanese Canadian community ran deep, and continued on for many years after laying down roots in Toronto after the war. He served on the Board of Directors at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre (1974-75), and went on to further solidify his cultural connection with his trademarked design of the 1977 Centennial logo commemorating the arrival and settlement of the first Japanese immigrant to Canada. Art's concept of the logo was to symbolize the "visual marriage" between Canadian and Japanese cultures - distinct, yet respectfully complementary. It also served to recognize past achievements and contributions, and future aspirations of Japanese Canadians. The symbolic logo that inspired cultural pride and a sense of true identity for Japanese Canadians adorned many treasured keepsake items: books, jewellery, dishware, apparel, and most notably, the bronze Commemorative Centennial Temple Bell housed on the west island of Ontario Place.

Art carried forth his commitment and involvement with the Japanese community long after the Centennial year, but his greatest honour came with the opportunity to serve as co-chair of the 1988 "A Time to Celebrate" gala event attended by over 900 guests - a victory celebration to mark the historic achievement of the human rights Redress Settlement, and to pay tribute to the countless organizations, representatives, and individuals who supported Japanese Canadians throughout their 40 year struggle to obtain justice.

Since Art's early music jamming days while in college, jazz music was one of his passions right to the end; immersed in his favourite tunes with eyes closed and a smile on his face, his finger and toe tapping abilities were mesmerizing! Camping and being surrounded by nature were also treasured moments during younger years - exploring the forests, fishing, and portaging off the beaten path provided Art with utmost enjoyment, relaxation, and a peaceful escape from the busy world.

After many years as a successful graphic designer, a new opportunity took Art in a different direction as an actor in various movies and television shows. He was most recognized as "Fuji Hakayito", and brought tremendous joy and laughter to Super Dave Osbourne Show fans across Canada and the U.S.A. "Keep on 'raffing'" was his signature quote to many.

Often remembered with a pipe in mouth (from his extensive collection) and being ready to ante-in for a good poker game, Art will always be best remembered as a devoted, fun-loving adventure companion, and ultra-playful Papa/Jichan to his grandchildren: Kyle, Kayla, Noah, Kira, Chloe, Cole, and Isla. From outdoor explorations catching bugs and wagon rides to the duck ponds, to papier-mâché dinosaur art activities, Art's passions continuously enriched their lives with unforgettable moments. He was a wise and loving father to Jason (Ingrid), Rayna (Ken), and Carl (Nora), and best friend to Edye. Though his presence is dearly missed, Art lives on forever in the hearts of his family, and in those whose lives he touched.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff, residents, and families at the Yee Hong Scarborough Finch site for their care, support and friendship during Art's brief stay.

Memorial visitation to honour Art's well-lived life will take place on Sunday, December 18, 2022 from 1-4 P.M. at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, 6 Garamond Court, North York, M3C 1Z5. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre or the Yee Hong Community Wellness Foundation (Scarborough Finch site) in Art's memory will be deeply appreciated.