George Kishiyama, age 85, passed early Sunday morning, January 19, 2014, after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. He was born August 23, 1928 in the farming community of Brawley, CA to Kajuro and Sumi Kishiyama. Ten days later, the family moved to Arizona and began farming. As was common amongst young Japanese immigrant farming families striving for the best opportunities for their children, George was raised in Japan from 1938-1947 by his grandmother Kiku, aunt Umechan and uncle Kiyoshi. Upon return to the US after the war at age 19, George met his beautiful wife-to-be Betty on the 3-week ship ride back. They married in July 1955 and were married for 59 years.
George served our country in Korea from 1952-53 as a translator in the Military Intelligence Service of the US Army. For over 50 years, George and Betty owned and operated the South Mountain Flower Gardens on Baseline Road in Phoenix. This is where they raised their family, shared many experiences with other Japanese flower growers and watched Baseline road evolve from a two-lane dirt road to a six lane thoroughfare. George was active in the South Mountain Lions Club and served a term as President of the Japanese American Citizens League. He was a big ASU fan, especially ASU football. This was due to his cherished friendships with the coaches and staff. George spoke three languages, retained an unending number of jokes and stories and most impressively could relate to anyone from any background.
George was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Tomiko Collins and Iiko Iwakoshi. He is survived by his wife Betty, brother Charlie, sister Janice (Jim) Kobashi, daughters Cindy (Dave) Harbottle and Michelle (Luke) Koons, and three grandchildren he loved dearly: Alexis Harbottle, Stephen Koons and Joji Koons. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and former employees at South Mountain, many with whom he retained lifelong friendships. He is already deeply missed by all.
Please join us in laughter at the celebration of George’s life and legacy. Memorial service will be held on February 1, 2014, at 10:30 at Lakeshore Mortuary 1815 South Dobson Rd, Mesa AZ 85202. In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations can be made to Densho: The Japanese American Legacy Project (www.densho.org" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.densho.org) 1416 S. Jackson St. Seattle, Washington 98144. www.LakeshoreMort.com In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations can be made to Densho: The Japanese American Legacy Project (www.densho.org) 1416 S. Jackson St. Seattle, Washington 98144.
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