Ben Shimizu

Mike,
I just stumled on to the news of your father passing. I too have many fond memories of him and his gentle kind way in spite of our propensity for breaking things like bikes and windows. We knew we were safe with him. I often chuckle when I remember Ojai and his trying to get us to wear the rising sun bandanas. Looking back I think it would have been fun but I guess I was a little young to get the fun in it. He was always happy to see me and encouraging in his words. I will always count him as one who made my youth in our neighborhood a great experience. We were lucky to have him.

To Mrs. Shimizu, Bruce, Joyce, Michael, and all the Shimizu family. I just learned of the passing of Mr. Shimizu and want to send my fondest wishes to all of you. I remember Mr. Shimizu as a neighbor that we in the Straub family held in high esteem. I was just a little guy back then but remember how my folks would talk with great respect for Mr. & Mrs. Shimizu. I remember him to be a kind, friendly, and helpful man. Rest in peach sir.

Mike - I have many fond memories of your Dad when we were growing up - all having to do with soccer, of course. As Coach Molchan said, he was a fixture at every one of our games. I'll never forget cramming into his car (one of the first, and definitely the smallest, Hondas ever made) and driving to Ojai Valley Soccer Camp one summer. I even remember watching him play on Sundays in his men's league. My family sends our thoughts and prayers to you and your Mom, and to Bruce and Joyce.

On behalf of the Grandview Estates Homeowners Board of Directors we send our sincere condolences to the family of a much admired and involved member of our community. May the Grace of the Almighty be with you during this time of sadness,

August 22,2010

Mike,

When you were a freshman on the frosh-soph soccer team at Rolling Hills, your father attended most, if not all, of our games. I remember one match, I think it was against PV, I changed the lineup quite drastically from the one we had been using for the entire season up to that point. I removed you from the forward position and asked you to be the sweeper. I also had Chuck Bennett, Paul Coward, Donae Liu, play midfield or the back line. Porter Lebental and maybe even Barnes were moved to the forward position.
Just prior to the match your dad approached me with the serious look and the question the changes in the line up that I made. I told him I was trying to revitalize the players because their energy appeared to have diminished in the previous two or three matches. "The team seemed to be struggling and needed some kind of a spark," I said. "Maybe the change will ignite them and motivate them to perform better."
He smiled and walked away. I felt, however, that he disapproved of my decision. (Maybe not, and maybe I read something into his reaction that really wasn't truthful.) Nevertheless, he walked toward his usual position along the sideline where he could watch you and support you. Later, after the game, (of course we won handily) as I contemplated the reason for his concern regarding the changed lineup, I wondered if he thought that we might lose the match or that his enjoyment of the game wouldn't be as satisfying because you might not be scoring any goals from the sweeper position.
I know that he enjoyed each goal that you scored that entire season and you scored plenty of them.
I remember him as being very proud of your success then when you were a freshman as I am sure he was proud of all of your accomplishements until now. You made him one happy father.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this painful time.
Joe Molchan

Mary
Your are blessed with a wonderful family that will give you comfort and support.
Alice Natalizio

Coach, The Colin family has your family in our thoughts. May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
The Colins: Kris, Mark, Daniel and Katie

Mike, the Silver family sends there condolences for the loss of your father. We just wanted you to know that you and your family are in our prayers.

May your memories give you strength during these difficult times.

The Silvers: Fred, Sue, Sean, Heather and Megan

Coach Mike, I am so sorry for your loss. I just wanted you to know you and your family are in our prayers. He must have been a great man because he had a wonderful son.

God bless,

The Williams (Cyndi, Dennis, Zach, Jake, and Josh)

Dad,

Thank you for all that you did for me and our family. I never did thank you enough when you were here but wanted to let you know that I could not have picked a better man to be my father. I do not know of any better example of family man than you and I will miss you. Everything from the BBQ's and harmonica playing to the incredible amount of patience and knowledge you possessed. It still amazes me to think where your life took you and the experiences that you had. You passed on to me so much and I am blessed because of it. I will surely miss having you here with us but rest easy - you gave me a lifetime of fond memories to remember you by and I will pull from them to keep you close. Take care and rest assured that we will take care of Mom for you. Michigan too.

Hail! to the victors valiant
Hail! to the conqu'ring heroes
Hail! Hail! to Michigan
The leaders and best!
Hail! to the victors valiant
Hail! to the conqu'ring heroes
Hail! Hail! to Michigan,
The champions of the West!