Sam Minoru Itaya

1918 - 2010

Stockton, CA

Sam Minoru Itaya

Oct. 31, 1918 - Dec. 1, 2010

Sam Minoru Itaya was born on October 31, 1918 and passed away on December 1, 2010. He was predeceased by his parents, Yasutaro and Tsune Itaya and siblings Harry, George, Miki, Tom, Mildred, Toyo, and Shiz. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Sachi, and children, Stephen (Patsy) of Stockton, and Sharon (Bob Harris) of Austin, Texas, grandchildren Catherine, Mike, Robin, Chuckie, and his sister Pat Ota of San Mateo and sisters-in-law Florence M. Itaya of Sacramento, Miyoko Itaya of Campbell, Pauline Itaya of Seal Beach, and Florence Y. Itaya of Oregon, and brother-in-law, Sus Ito (Minnie) of Wellesley, MA.

He was born on Rough and Ready Island and grew up in French Camp. He graduated from Stockton High School and barber college. He served in the US Army during WW II from 1941 to 1945, stationed in San Antonio, Texas. He returned to Stockton as owner of Nisei Barbershop. He returned to school and graduated from Stockton Jr. College and UOP with a BA and MA in education and school administration. He taught and was a math specialist for 17 years at Nightingale School, including service on the State Teacher Training Accreditation Board. He retired in 1981, and continued as a leader in the Stockton Buddhist Church, farmed in French Camp, wrote stories, including publishing a book of poetry for his gandchildren, traveled around the world, read extensively, and looked after his family.

Memorial service will be held at the Stockton Buddhist Church on December 18, at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of San Joaquin or the Stockton Buddhist Church.