James Makoto Oka

James (Jim) Makoto (Mogo) Oka was born and raised in San Jose. He came from a large family and was the second youngest out of seven siblings. He is preceded in the passing by Lily Hirakawa, George Oka, Amos Oka, and Mary Toyoda. He is survived by Eva Nakano and Robert Oka. In addition, he leaves behind 14 nieces and nephews, with whom he made wonderful memories as a young "cool" uncle and later as a friend and mentor.

During World War II, he and his family were sent to the Heart Mountain Relocation Center in Wyoming. There he literally left his mark by signing his name in wet concrete which is still visible today. After the war, his family returned to San Jose where the Zanker family helped them find housing and employment.

Jim spent four years in the Air Force, serving during the Korean War. He spent part of that time in Japan, which he loved. With his GI bill, he was able to attend UC Berkeley and earn his degree in electrical engineering. he worked at Lockheed Missiles and Spacer Company for 31 years.

While he was attending Berkeley, he spent summers working in a cannery near Japantown. One summer he ate lunch at a coffee shop nearby and caught the eye of a young lady named Eiko. Happily, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in the same location as the coffee shop once stood.

Jim and Eiko had two daughters, June Yasuhara and Julie Froisland, with whom they went on many adventures. Jim loved to explore and show his daughters the many wonderful sights our country has to offer. He was a photographer at heart and would go to great lengths to get the perfect shot.

He taught his daughters to value hard work, to not make excuses, and to be generous with, not only money, but with time. He was quick to help anyone who needed it. Because of his caring nature, a number of June and Julie's friends considered him to be a second dad.

Jim also modeled hospitality, frequently hosting friends and family. He took particular joy in hosting the annual Oka Christmas gathering complete with pinata, taking over much of the cooking duties from Eiko in their later years.

He and Eiko were avid travelers, journeying internationally when they were empty nesters. Though seniors, they showed their intrepid spirits by staying at youth hostels and traveling with what they could carry on their backpacks. They explored all the states except Alaska, and every continent except Africa, Australia, and Antarctica.

Jim's greatest passion by far was bowling. Not only did he enjoy the sport itself, he valued highly the life-long friendships he made over the years through participating in leagues and tournaments.

Jim showed his creative side by designing woodworking and metal projects. He also completed many DIY projects around his house, including remodeling the kitchen and a bathroom. he even converted a van to function as a camper, complete with working sink, stove and small refrigerator. The family took many trips in that van.

Jim's most treasured material possession was his convertible Austin Healey. His daughters fondly remember crawling around in the car when it was sitting in the garage, and taking scenic drives in it.

As a grandpa, Jim could not say "no" to his grandkids. He was a doting Grandpa to Bradley and Jake Yasuhara, and Jichan to Daniel, Gabriel, Charis, Kara, Micah, Malachi, Naomi, and Lydia Froisland. He loved to spend quality time with them cooking, making projects, giving bowling tips, doing yard work, cheering them on at games, recitals, plays and other activities.

On a personal note, we, June and Julie, would like to thank ALL our family and friends who have supported and loved Dad throughout his lifetime. We would also like to express our deep appreciation. fort our parents' caregivers, the "two Tinas," who worked tirelessly to give our dad the dignity he deserved in his last weeks of life.

Consistent with his thought and care of others, his wishes were that we don't inconvenience any who might feel obligated to attend a service. He always thought of others. In fact, he didn't even want to be buried because he thought he would be taking up room for the living.

We are comforted that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 13, shortly after celebrating his 89th birthday. As he wished, he was at home, which was the first home he ever owned. Jim leaves behind a legacy of loving and helping others. We will miss his radiant smile, his infectious laugh and his love of lollipops!!!