Yoshihiro Joe "Joe" Akagi

Yoshihiro “Yosh” Akagi was born February 17, 1920 in Portland, OR to Kitaro and Hisayo Akagi. He was raised in Portland with his three brothers, Minoru, Sam, and Hideo. He attended Benson High School and graduated in 1937.

Following graduation, Yosh worked for the railroad before he enlisted in the United States Army in 1942. He was honorably discharged in 1945.

Yosh attended business school in Portland and received a certificate in accounting. He then became the chief clerk for the City of Portland. He retired in 1982 after 35 years of employment.

On August 30, 1969, Yosh exchanged wedding vows with Atsuko (At-chan) Ochiai. The couple lived in Portland and enjoyed playing card games with friends.

Yosh was very handy around the house. He enjoyed carpentry and made several pieces of furniture such as bookcases. After retirement, Yosh and Atsuko signed up for ballroom dancing lessons, and have loved dancing together every week for years.

Yosh was a member of the Eagles, the Gresham Elks, and a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church.

Yosh passed away Dec. 2, 2010 in Portland. A memorial service will be held at 11AM, Saturday, December 18, 2010 in Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home. A reception will follow. The family will hold a private inurnment at Willamette National Cemetery. Yosh is survived by his wife; children, Michael, John, and Annalee; three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.