Jokichi Takamine III

December 6, 1924 - December 18, 2013 Dr. Jokichi Takamine III, a nationally renowned physician for his lifetime of work and devotion in the field of alcoholism and drug dependency, died December 18th in Santa Monica, California at the age of 89. A graduate of Williams College and New York University Medical School, Dr. Takamine served his residency in internal medicine at New York's Lenox Hill Hospital and at Wadsworth V.A. Hospital in Los Angeles. A private practice physician since 1957 and beloved staff member of St. John's Hospital and Medical Center, Dr. Takamine and two colleagues founded the St. John's Chemical Dependency Center in 1974. He also served in many leadership and faculty roles, both in California and Washington D.C., including the Medical Directorship of the Chemical Dependency Units of several Los Angeles area community hospitals, as a faculty member (UCLA Clinic, U.S. Naval Hospital, UCLA Research Center) as well as an appointment to the American Medical Association Committee on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. As the namesake and grandson of famed Japanese Biochemist, Jokichi Takamine, he was truly "one of a kind" and dedicated his life to helping others. This not only earned him many national and local awards of appreciation for his service, but more importantly, the love of his family, friends, patient's and colleagues. 'Joe', as he was known to friends, proudly served in the military and was an active member of the Brentwood Presbyterian Church. He had one sister, Caroline (deceased) and is survived by his daughter, Deborah Moyer. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to donate, in lieu of flowers, to addiction treatment organizations such as Clare Foundation, Friendly House or Phoenix House. Burial services will be privately held.