Isao Ken Kondo

KONDO, Isao Ken -- Born in Salinas, CA on August 27, 1935, and entered into rest peacefully on June 1, 2003, at the age of 67, after battling multiple myeloma for nearly 2 years, as well as diabetes. A man of exceptional magnetism, his outgoing, friendly, humoristic personality and captivating smile made him a lifelong friend of virtually everyone he encountered. He had a distinguished two-decade career as a Palo Alto police officer, and was the first Asian American to join the force. He also served his country with great pride in both Korea and Japan, in the U.S. Army, military intelligence. He enthusiastically enjoyed his participation in the Legends Golf Club and Mid-Peninsula Nisei Bowling Association, as well as fishing, cards, dining, and most of all, time with his family and countless friends. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of eleven years, Mindy, who cherishes over two-decades together in love and happiness. His children, Eric, Kurt, Kim and Laura, daughter-in-law Robyn, son-in-law Steve Carrieri, and grandchildren Zackery, Alyssa, Caleb and Adam, will always be grateful for his love, guidance and devotion. He will be lovingly remembered by his brothers Mits and Mas (Helen), and sisters Marie (Eiichi Sakauye), Mari Kajita, Mike (Eddie Ikemura), Fumi Ujita and Sally (Richard Okano), as well as beloved family who preceded him in death, brother Joe, mother Misao and father Manjiro. He will be forever loved and missed by many in-laws, nephews and nieces, and countless friends, co-workers, neighbors and the community-at-large he served with passion and commitment. Friends are invited to attend funeral service to be held on Sunday, June 8 from 7:00 p.m. at the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, 640 North Fifth St., San Jose. A private inurnment will be held at Oak Hill Memorial Park. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of WILLOW GLEN FUNERAL CHAPEL.