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BORN
1936
DIED
2020
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Makoto Imamura Obituary
July 28, 1936 - March 22, 2020
Resident of Cupertino
The world lost one of the great ones the morning of March 22, 2020.
Makoto Imamura was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA and with his wife Lilly (deceased in 2017) and his 4 children relocated to Cupertino, CA in 1976 where he remained until his passing.
He was a true sportsman who enjoyed camping, fishing, and playing golf. He never missed an opportunity to watch his beloved Dodgers or Warriors play.
After retiring from the State of California after 38 years as Construction and Safety Engineers, he became a wonderful musician - singing and playing his Ukulele for the enjoyment of many.
He brought love into the world through his song, his caring demeanor, and his heart warming laugh.
He found joy in being a devoted husband, father, and coach but nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his 8 grandchildren. The smile on his face while watching his grandchildren performing on stage, playing a sport, or just being themselves was magical.
Makoto was preceded in death by his wife for over 50 years, Lilly Yuriko Imamura. He is survived by their children Susan Van Dyne (Bob), Don Imamura (Alison), Gail Imamura, Bobby Imamura (Niki), and 8 wonderful grandchildren.
At this time, the family will celebrate his life privately and asks that any donation to be made to the Santa Clara Valley Japanese Christian Church.
View the online memorial for Makoto Imamura
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Makoto Imamura
Sponsored by San Jose Mercury News.
4 Entries
Chuck Taubman
April 9, 2020
I recall with great pleasure meeting Mako and sharing the joy of coaching our sons in youth sports. The years have fogged my memory--was it baseball? Soccer? Both? No matter, Mako was a true gentleman and a great role model for our children. Barbara and I are greatly saddened by his loss and that of Lilly before him. Whether we encountered each other in a local restaurant, a grocery store, or simply in walks through the neighborhood, they always greeted us with a warm smile. We and our children greatly miss them, but we are comforted knowing that the souls of Mako and Lilly are once again together.
And may the Imamura family find strength from knowing that their parents made this world a better place.
Wailani, OHerlihy
April 4, 2020
May your journey on the other side be with all your family as you serenade them with your beautiful ukulele. Thank you for passing your legacy to those still living because you will forever be in their hearts.
Stephanie Baron
April 3, 2020
Don was a close high school friend of my big brother, Chris Baron. I just always knew that Donny's parents must be magnificent because their son definitely was. (He still is, I'm sure!)
Sending you all love, light and comfort in these trying days. Whoever wrote the obituary did a fantastic job of conveying the patriarch of the Imamura Family.
Love,
Stephanie Baron
Mr & Mrs Charles Innes
April 2, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
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Lima & Campagna Sunnyvale Mortuary1315 Hollenbeck Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94087
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