Fred Akira Shiraki, M.D.

Fred Akira Shiraki, 93, of Santa Clara, CA passed away peacefully on Monday, April 11 after a long illness. He will be remembered and missed for his kindness and generosity. He was known to many as a wonderful teacher: patient, wise and inspiring. He touched many lives with his gentle spirit, compassion, dedication to his work, and deep love for his family.

Fred was born to parents Harukichi and Shizuko Shiraki on April 8, 1929 in Gilroy, CA. During World War II the family was sent to Heart Mountain Relocation Center, a concentration camp in Wyoming, where they were interned from 1942 to 1945. Fred graduated from San Jose High School in 1947 and went on to attend San Jose State College (University). He earned his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy in 1952 and later a Doctor of Pharmacy, both from the University of California School of Pharmacy in San Francisco. In 1952 he served as Army pharmacist for 2 years.

In 1953 Fred married Janice Kumagai, his sister Claire’s best friend.

Fred’s education continued at Northwestern University, where he earned his medical degree in 1961. He served his internship and residency in Detroit, Michigan.

After returning to California, Fred enjoyed a 33 year career with Kaiser Permanente, beginning in Santa Clara and then in Redwood City. He practiced as an internist, and also became Chief of Nuclear Medicine. He officially “retired” in 1998 but continued to work for Kaiser through an outside contractor for another 17 years. He finally retired in 2016 at age 87 from the career that he truly enjoyed.

Fred spent many summers fishing and camping at Eagle Lake, CA, traveling with Janice in the US and abroad, visiting Japan and other parts of the world. He was an avid reader, and loved listening to classical, big band and Japanese enka music. His hobbies included photography, gardening, woodworking and the appreciation of Japanese antiques and artwork. He was also a Sharks, Giants, Niners and Warriors fan. But most of all, he enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren grow.

Fred is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Janice. He will be greatly missed by his children, Wendy Shiraki-Raphael, Lynne Shiraki McGuinness, Kerry Shiraki M.D., Dina Shiraki Kennedy, and Scott Shiraki. He will be remembered by his grandchildren, Ryan Raphael, Sarah Raphael, Mikel Recinos, Matthew Recinos, and Daniel Recinos. He also leaves behind his sister, Claire Shiraki.

A private family service will be held with an interment at Oak Hill Memorial Park in San Jose, CA.