Tetsuya Yamada

Tetsuya “Grizzly” Yamada, 87, of Hilo, Hawaii, passed away on November 27, 2024. He was known for his kindness, resilience, and dedication to his community.

A retired agricultural researcher, Tetsuya dedicated his career to studying Hawaii’s unique farming challenges. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed night fishing along the cliffs of the Big Island, earning a reputation for his adventurous spirit.

Tetsuya was also a passionate advocate for prison reform, working to create positive change and bring hope to affected individuals and families.

In his later years, Tetsuya found joy in his marriage to Maria Alvarez Yamada. Together, they traveled across the United States and to South America, celebrating different cultures and creating cherished memories.

Tetsuya is survived by his loving wife, Maria Alvarez Yamada; his children: Theodore Yamada (wife Donna) of Florida and Gerald Yamada (wife Wendy) of Hilo; his siblings: Yoichi Yamada, Yoko Takai, Bob Yamada, Kazuko Kaneshiro, Ernest Yamada, and May Takafuji of Oahu; and his stepsons: Carlos Ramirez, Harold Ramirez, JP Ramirez, and Benjamin Ramirez.

Service Details:A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Ballard Family Mortuary in Hilo, Hawaii:• 10:30 AM: Reception• 11:00 AM: Celebration of Life Service• 12:00 PM: Light Lunch