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Michael YAMAMOTO Obituary
YAMAMOTO, Michael Alan
Feb. 3, 1952 - March 5, 2014
Michael passed away on March 5, 2014, from the effects of cancer. Michael celebrated his 62nd birthday on February 3. He was born in 1952, in Renton, Washington. Michael's early years were spent in Kent, Washington, where he helped work on his parent's truck farm, by planting vegetables and driving a tractor when not in school, all before he was 13 years old. Thereafter, the family moved to Sacramento, where Michael attended high school and college. While briefly living in Reno, Nevada, Michael spent most of his life in Sacramento.
Michael's mother, Maxine, preceded him in death. His father, Kaneo Yamamoto, survives Michael. Michael had one son, Lance (Nicole Goi) Yamamoto, and granddaughters Lauren and Genevieve. He is also survived by his brothers, Brian (Patricia), Ernest, and David Yamamoto; sisters Susan (Mickey) Bennett and Judy Rhodes; and nephews, Danny (Linda), Gregory (Tina), Robert, and Kenji; Greg's sons, Ethan and Mason, as well as his many uncles, aunts, and cousins.
In August 2012, Michael was diagnosed with colon cancer. He appreciated each day that he could continue to spend with his family and friends. We were all amazed at his optimism and will to live many more years despite the devastating effects of cancer and chemotherapy. He looked forward to seeing an orchid plant given to him, open a new bloom after being dormant for a year during his treatments. The plant bloomed one day after his passing - as if to let his family and friends know he is in a more beautiful place.
A private memorial service will be held.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael YAMAMOTO
2 Entries
March 18, 2014
Mike and I talked on the phone. He was always had positive things to say. We will miss you Mike. From a High School friend, Chuck Pratt.
Gordon Muraki
March 17, 2014
Mike was a good friend in our high school years. We reconnected in Reno for a few more years. Although we lost contact after Reno we were able to meet up again in these last months. Rest in peace Mike!
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