Kenneth Isao Kubo

Ken is survived by his mother Mary Tokiye Kubo, his children, Kenneth Takeo Kubo of Portland, OR and Kelly Ann Taggart of Payette, ID, his Grandson Kai Takeo Kubo, and his brothers Vincent, Samson, Larry, Eddie, and Kenyon of the Bay Area in California. He was preceded in death by his father Isamu (Sam) of Santa Clara, CA, and his sister Edna, also of Santa Clara, CA.

Ken was born on June 1, 1942 in Arcadia, CA to Mary Tokiye and Isamu Kubo. His birth came as the family was en route to the Heart Mountain War Relocation Center in Wyoming. Mary went into labor at the Santa Anita Racetrack. Although she made it to the hospital before he was born, Ken always claimed he was “born in a barn.”

He spent his early years observing and learning from those around him. Always eager to pass on knowledge, he decided to show his mother what he had observed about starting and driving a car. He was able to successfully relay instructions on how to start and steer the car. Unfortunately, he had not yet learned about stopping. On that first car trip, he and his mother Mary made several trips around the neighborhood before using a tree for a brake.

Ken grew up in Santa Clara and graduated from Buchser High School. After graduation, he went on to study at San Jose State University, work two jobs, get married, and become a proud parent to two children. He also began practicing martial arts. Through his life, he would achieve black belts in aikido, judo, kendo, and archery. He went to Japan on several occasions to practice and test, including under Osensei, Morihei Ueshiba. Ken went on to be an instructor and founded the Lockheed Aikido Club.

Ken worked for over 25 years at Lockheed Martin as a System Engineer. When asked what that meant, he would always say it was “classified.” His work took him to many parts of the world, including Scotland and later Las Cruces, NM. He enjoyed those details as he always enjoyed travel and meeting new people. While in Las Cruces, Ken became involved with the Civil Air Patrol. He found great enjoyment in teaching young people about aerospace science.

When he returned to California, he continued his support of aviation by working with San Jose Civil Air Patrol Squadron and volunteering at the Hiller Aerospace Museum. He also found deep enjoyment in Hawaiian culture. He spent time with local Hawaiian musicians, learning to play the ukulele, and even learning how to hula.

Ken will be remembered for his love of family, friends, and a nice long chat. He was always quick to lend his time, skill, and support where it was needed. His appetite for life and adventure will be dearly missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.

A service is scheduled for 1:00 pm on July 16, 2016 at the Lima Family Santa Clara Mortuary. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ken’s life. A reception will follow. Memorials should made to KKUP in honor Ken’s love of Hawaiian culture and communication.