Saiji Zakimi

With heartfelt gratitude, we celebrate the life of Saiji “Zak” Zakimi, who, at the age of 102, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 27, 2024. Zak was a man of extraordinary character who always sought to lift others with sincere compliments and encouraging words. Zak was a steadfast example of integrity, resilience and love. As a son of Okinawan immigrants who built their lives on the sugar plantations of Hawaii, Zak rose above adversity and left a lasting impact on his family, his faith community, and countless others.

Born in a time when Hawaii was a U.S. territory, Zak grew up working on the sugar plantations working tirelessly from the age of nine until he left for college to the University of Hawaii. Despite limited opportunities, Zak embraced life with a dedication to hard work and humility. His journey from the plantation to becoming a highly decorated World War II hero, where he was awarded two purple hearts, reflects his remarkable character and courage to overcome hardships. In a defining moment of U.S. history, he joined the renowned 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a unit of Japanese Americans fighting for a country they loved that had placed their families in internment camps. Zak and his fellow soldiers faced grueling battles, embodying the unit’s motto, “Go for broke,” and leaving a legacy as part of the most decorated military unit in U.S. history.

Upon returning from war, Zak returned to the University of Hawaii where he completed his education and became a Social Worker. While in college, he found a deeper calling, and learned about the gospel of Jesus Christ and became a valiant member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and dedicated his life to faith and service. With the same integrity and courage that defined his military service, he became a beloved bishop, a high council member, and a devoted temple worker and sealer. Known as a spiritual giant in his modest 5-foot-5 inch frame, Zak always led by example, prioritizing the needs of others and fostering a spirit of compassion, humility, and unwavering faith.

Zak’s marriage to his beloved wife Lynn Shiroma, who preceded him in death in 1996, was the cornerstone of his life. Together, Zak and Lynn built a family and home grounded upon the principles of love and service. Lynn’s vivacious spirit of warmth and joy complemented Zak’s quiet strength. Zak’s unshakeable faith and natural kindness drew people to him. He and Lynn spent their days forming deep friendships with strangers who soon became family, and their hearts held space for all who they met. As a juvenile probation officer and dedicated community leader Zak helped countless young people find their path. To him, there was no higher purpose than to make someone feel valued, loved and seen. His life served as a quiet and constant reminder that true greatness lies not in accolades or recognition, but in the simple acts of service, kindness and connection. His laughter, gentle spirit and remarkable ability to make friends in every place he went and in every stage of his life will be greatly missed.

As we reflect on his passing, our hearts are filled with immense gratitude for the life he led and the legacy he left behind. Zak’s spirit lives on through the countless lives he touched and the example he set, leaving the world brighter, kinder, and more full of love.

Zak is preceded in death by his beloved sweetheart Lynn, Son-in-law Dale Simpson, daughter-in-law Lynne Zakimi, great grandchildren Miles Kelly, Koa and Dia Simpson. He is survived by four children- Audrey (Phil) Kelly, Lily Simpson (Bill Crocker), Jimmy (Alicia) Zakimi and Paul Zakimi. His posterity includes 16 grandchildren and 45 great-grandchildren.

Please join us in a celebration of life for Zak on Monday November 18, 2024. Services will be held at the Honolulu Hawaii Tabernacle for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Family visitation will begin at 9 am, followed by funeral services 10-11am. Burial will take place at 2pm at Hawaii State Veternans Cemetery in Kaneohe.