Tomio Hamasaki

Tomio Hamasaki

April 11, 1926 - November 25, 2017

Tomio Hamasaki was born in Seattle on April 11, 1926 to Jukichi and Kiyo Hamasaki and passed away on November 25, 2017 in Kent at the age of 91.

Tomio lived and attended school in Seattle until early 1942 when he and his family were relocated to the Minidoka Internment camp in Idaho. Near the end of his time in camp he enlisted in the US Army and served in the Military Intelligence Service unit from 1945 to 1948. Tomio married Kimiye Jinguji in Seattle in 1949. Together they raised three daughters Glenna, Sandy and Denise.

Tomio was a career employee with the US Postal Service in Seattle until he was promoted to a Western Region Plant Maintenance management position in San Bruno, California in 1972. He retired in 1981 with over 30 years of service.

Soon after retirement he moved to Japan where he planned to travel, learn more about his culture and spend time with his eldest brother and his family. This adventure lasted 15 years during which time he was able to travel extensively throughout the country. He took great pride in customizing a van (his tent on wheels) as he camped across the country thoroughly enjoying Japan, its history and fabulous food.

He returned to the Seattle area in 2000 where he spent his remaining years treasuring many good times with his friends and growing family.

Tomio is survived by his daughters Sandy Hedington (Mark) and Denise Hamasaki, grandson Kyle (Lisa) and his great-grandchildren Macklen and Harper. Tomio is also survived by his sister Kim Oki. He was predeceased by his parents, wife Kimiye, daughter Glenna Hamasaki-Takeuchi and brothers Katsumi and Shigemi Hamasaki. Private family services were held.

Tomio will be dearly missed but never, ever forgotten.