Tom N. Takahashi

Tom Noboru Takahashi of Loomis, CA passed away Wednesday, Dec 28 at age 93. Tom was a second generation Japanese American (Nisei), born to Kiichiro and Nui on April 1, 1923 in Loomis. His father and grandfather were first generation Japanese Americans (Issei), having immigrated from Japan in 1911 to settle in Loomis, a farming town at the time. Tom is preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Tayeko, and brothers, George and Homer. He is survived by sister Bessie; brothers Milton and Harold; children Donna (Norman), Mark (Rosanne) and Ronald (Sarah); and four grandchildren, Philip, Alex, Tim and Gemma.

Tom was a student at UC Davis, where his studies were put on hold when he, his siblings and parents were ordered to the internment camp at Tule Lake at the start of World War II. While there, Tom joined the US Army and served in the MIS (Military Intelligence Service), for which he and the group of Nisei soldiers serving in the MIS were later awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.

After the war, Tom finished his college degree at UC Davis and went to work for the Geological Survey and later for the State of California as an agricultural inspector of fruits, vegetables, feeds and grains until his retirement. He raised his family in Loomis, often taking them on enjoyable fishing and camping trips, even though his old canvas tent was really too small for a family of five. He enjoyed raising a variety of farm animals, especially cattle and made sure his children learned the responsibilities of farm living. Tom was active in the Japanese American community and served as president of the local JACL (Japanese American Citizens League.) His children and grandchildren are thankful for his strict arm pointing the way to a good college education.

Family and friends are invited to services on Jan 13, 2017 at First United Methodist Church, 6414 Brace Rd, Loomis, CA 95650. Viewing at 11:30; 12:00 Service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First United Methodist Church of Loomis.