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Iwao Yokooji, 96, of Waimanalo passed away peacefully at home on November 22, 2017. He will be remembered for his tireless work ethics, his fight for Japanese and community causes, and his generous, caring, and selfless nature. Whenever in need, he was there for family, friends and colleagues. Iwao was born November 17, 1921 in Honohina, Hawaii to the late Thomas Tamotsu and Akino (Yasukochi). Iwao graduated from McKinley High School in 1939 and the U.S. Army Command & General Staff College in 1965. He retired as a U.S. Army Colonel serving with the 442nd Infantry Regiment and Military Intelligence Service. Iwao served in WWII, the Korean and Vietnam wars. He was a Bronze Star recipient. As a civilian, Iwao was the Campaign Manager for the former Mayor Frank Fasi for 20 years and was a member of his cabinet as Assistant Managing Director and Deputy Auditoriums Director for the City & County of Honolulu. He was also a Real Estate Broker and flower nursery owner/grower. He was involved with many clubs and associations and most recently a member of the MIS Veterans Club (served as President 1999-2000), 442 Veterans Club, and Fukuoka Kenjinkai. He lived a long, storied life and the following are a few highlights of his most vivid memories. Iwao had the rare privilege of being on the same platform of Emperor Hirohito upon his first visit to Hokkaido since WWII. Only the Governor of Hokkaido, Mayor of Sapporo, U.S.Commanding General, and Iwao were allowed on the platform to greet the Emperor. Another highlight and important part of his journey was his marksman's pin. Due to his proficiency with the rifle and his officer's rank, his superiors tasked him to train the replacements of the 442 Infantry Regiment. Iwao also cherished the time he chaired the 50th VJ Commemoration (end of WWII anniversary) at Punchbowl attended by former President Clinton. Iwao dined with President Clinton at a special dinner after the commemoration. In addition, Iwao always smiled at the memory of his first win as Chairman with Mayor Fasi's many mayoral campaign victories. Finally, The Japanese American Citizens League brought a complaint to the USS Arizona Memorial regarding the movie shown to visitors, blaming the large Japanese population in Hawaii for Japan's successful sneak attack on Pearl Harbor. Iwao joined in the complaint and with his assistance he was able to facilitate a change to the movie and the sabotage narrative was successfully deleted from the film. Iwao was very proud of this accomplishment since this film will be viewed by thousands of people for many years to come. Iwao is survived by his wife, Yoneko; daughter, Bonnie (Lloyd) Furumori; son, Douglas (Cindy, Derek, and Deanna Mori); grandson, Todd; granddaughter, Melanie; great-grandson, Justin; brothers, the late Kenji (Caroline); Andy (Janice); sisters, Helen (James) Hanashiro; Mabel (the late Fred) Kaya; nieces, nephews, and relatives. Although his voice is silent, conversations he shared of service, dedication, and valor will remain with our family forever. We love you, Dad! Private services were held at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Arrangements Provided By: Hosoi Garden Mortuary
Iwao Yokooji, 96, of Waimanalo passed away peacefully at home on November 22, 2017. He will be remembered for his tireless work ethics, his fight for Japanese and community causes, and his generous, caring, and selfless nature. Whenever in need, he was there for family, friends and colleagues. Iwao was born November 17, 1921 in Honohina, Hawaii to the late Thomas Tamotsu and Akino (Yasukochi). Iwao graduated from McKinley High School in 1939 and the U.S. Army Command & General Staff College in 1965. He retired as a U.S. Army Colonel serving with the 442nd Infantry Regiment and Military Intelligence Service. Iwao served in WWII, the Korean and Vietnam wars. He was a Bronze Star recipient. As a civilian, Iwao was the Campaign Manager for the former Mayor Frank Fasi for 20 years and was a member of his cabinet as Assistant Managing Director and Deputy Auditoriums Director for the City & County of Honolulu. He was also a Real Estate Broker and flower nursery owner/grower. He was involved with many clubs and associations and most recently a member of the MIS Veterans Club (served as President 1999-2000), 442 Veterans Club, and Fukuoka Kenjinkai. He lived a long, storied life and the following are a few highlights of his most vivid memories. Iwao had the rare privilege of being on the same platform of Emperor Hirohito upon his first visit to Hokkaido since WWII. Only the Governor of Hokkaido, Mayor of Sapporo, U.S.Commanding General, and Iwao were allowed on the platform to greet the Emperor. Another highlight and important part of his journey was his marksman's pin. Due to his proficiency with the rifle and his officer's rank, his superiors tasked him to train the replacements of the 442 Infantry Regiment. Iwao also cherished the time he chaired the 50th VJ Commemoration (end of WWII anniversary) at Punchbowl attended by former President Clinton. Iwao dined with President Clinton at a special dinner after the commemoration. In addition, Iwao always smiled at the memory of his first win as Chairman with Mayor Fasi's many mayoral campaign victories. Finally, The Japanese American Citizens League brought a complaint to the USS Arizona Memorial regarding the movie shown to visitors, blaming the large Japanese population in Hawaii for Japan's successful sneak attack on Pearl Harbor. Iwao joined in the complaint and with his assistance he was able to facilitate a change to the movie and the sabotage narrative was successfully deleted from the film. Iwao was very proud of this accomplishment since this film will be viewed by thousands of people for many years to come. Iwao is survived by his wife, Yoneko; daughter, Bonnie (Lloyd) Furumori; son, Douglas (Cindy, Derek, and Deanna Mori); grandson, Todd; granddaughter, Melanie; great-grandson, Justin; brothers, the late Kenji (Caroline); Andy (Janice); sisters, Helen (James) Hanashiro; Mabel (the late Fred) Kaya; nieces, nephews, and relatives. Although his voice is silent, conversations he shared of service, dedication, and valor will remain with our family forever. We love you, Dad! Private services were held at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Arrangements Provided By: Hosoi Garden Mortuary
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased
