72Upon graduating from Hilo High School he moved to Honolulu to attend the University of Hawaii at Manoa and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering degree. He obtained his Civil Engineering license, then dedicated his career working for the US Army Corp of Engineers, Pacific Ocean Division in Tokyo/Camp Zama/Camp Zukeran in Japan, Okinawa and Seoul, Korea before retiring in Fort Shafter, Hawaii. He was an Army Corp volunteer who deployed around the Pacific region during hurricane relief efforts. After retiring from the Dept of Defense, he continued to serve in the US Army Reserves and retired as a Major.
Asato was an avid organist who enjoyed having family and friends gathered around while he played his favorite big band tunes from the Standards Songbooks. After retirement, he embarked on new hobbies: home renovations, landscaping and golf. He loved to golf and played 18-holes daily, well into his seventies.
Asato is survived by his wife Tomie; children Sharon and Dean (Keiko); granddaughter Tabitha; brother Masao "Dick" Yoshimoto. In addition to his parents Ichiro and Satomi Yoshimoto, Asato was preceded in death by brother Kazuo "Mac" Yoshimoto and sisters Yoshie "Mildred" Hiraiwa and Harumi Yoshimoto.
We wish to express our deep appreciation to the many friends and family members for their kindness, support and generous expression of condolences.
A private Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
