Masao Nishijima

He graduated from Arroyo Grande High School, followed by two years at Santa Maria Junior College. He excelled as a pitcher in which he got his name "Lefty". When World War II broke out, he was relocated to the internment camp in Poston, AZ. After the war, he ended up in Fresno, CA where he met Kimi Yano. They married in 1950. He worked as a butcher at Star Super Market for nearly 30 years, and then at Central Fish Co. Lefty and Kimi worked hard and sacrificed to proudly put three children through professional schools.

He enjoyed watching sports especially the San Francisco Giants and 49ers. He was fortunate enough to travel to Japan, Alaska, Italy, and China. He also enjoyed playing Shanghai, poker, and bingo with friends. It was a shock to all when he unexpectedly but peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2015.

He was preceded in death by his wife Kimi.

Lefty is survived by his sons, Dean Nishijima and his wife Midori, and Ross Nishijima and his wife Cynthia; his daughter, Donna Nishijima; his grandchildren Nicklaus, Miki, and Mackenzie; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the care he received from Drs. Roger Gong, and Christopher Julian; and for the loving care that he received from the staff at Vintage Garden.

A Memorial Service will be held at Fresno Betsuin Family Dharma Center, 2690 E. Alluvial in Fresno, CA., on Monday, March 30, 2015 at 11:00 am.