Richard "Dick" Yoshiharu Uchimura

Richard "Dick" Yoshiharu Uchimura, 85, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, at home in El Cajon on Friday, August 8. Born in Garden Grove, California, Dick attended Fallbrook High School before earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of California, Davis. He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Carole, with whom he shared a lifetime of devotion, partnership, and joy.

It is with great love and gratitude that we remember his life. A respected and compassionate veterinarian, Dick dedicated over 40 years to caring for animals in El Cajon, California. Together, he and Carole owned and operated Jamacha Veterinary Clinic, often making personal sacrifices to be available to patients and clients around the clock. Known for his gentle way with animals and his honesty with their owners, Dick earned the trust and affection of all who came through his clinic's doors. Even after retirement, he continued to donate his time and expertise to animals in need, reflecting his lifelong generosity.

Outside of his work, Dick lived life fully. He loved good food, cultural outings with Carole, golfing with friends, gardening, hiking, baking pies, and traveling. His favorite golf courses were Palm Desert, Monterey, and Lake Tahoe. Some of his favorite travel destinations included Lake Tahoe and San Francisco, where he and Carole went three times a year, for many years, to enjoy golf, theater, museums, and good food. They also adventured to New York, Las Vegas, and Zion National Park, where they often spent Thanksgiving with family, hiking and golfing along the way. A skilled golfer, Dick's office was filled with plaques and trophies celebrating his many achievements, including 7 hole-in-ones, as well as local tournament victories.

For Dick, family was everything. As a proud Japanese American who lived through the challenges of internment during World War II, he understood the strength and resilience that family can bring. Among his four sisters and one brother, and throughout his extended family, he was a constant source of care and encouragement. He honored his heritage, valued every connection, and made it his quiet mission to look out for those he loved.

Whatever Dick did, he did with heart - whether it was perfecting his golf swing, discovering the best apple pie recipe, or showing up for someone who needed him. He was the best at so many things, but above all, he was the best at being a devoted husband, a loving uncle, and a true friend. We will remember him for his kindness, his dedication, his humor, and the difference he made in our lives. His love and his legacy will stay with us always.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to an animal welfare organization of your choice, honoring Dick's compassion for animals.