Katsuhiko Shoji

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our loved one, Kuts Shoji on January 29th. Kuts was predeceased by his son Warren, his parents, Roy and Matsue Shoji, his brothers Edward and Yosh, sisters in law Shirley and Terry. He is survived by his wife Carol and daughters Karin, Leslie (Justin) , granddaughters Mio, Amaya, Maiko and Cassia, brothers Vic, Elmer (Ginger), sister Shelagh (Terry) and many nieces and nephews.

Kuts was born in Vancouver on March 30, 1942, days before the family was interned in Minto. After the war the family moved to Revelstoke where Kuts grew up. He graduated with a BA from UBC in 1964. After graduation he worked for a Japanese trading firm in Vancouver where his knowledge of Canadian customs and business practises were an asset to the company. He also became more proficient in Japanese during this period. Always a self starter, it wasn’t long until he wanted to start his own business. He started Interex Industries in 1969 with no capital but lots of ideas. His first import products, 10 speed bicycles, became very popular when there was a bicycle boom in the 70’s. He always said he was the right place at the right time. He expanded the business to become the Canadian distributor of many sporting good brands. Kuts and Carol travelled to many places in the world to source products, and usually managed to add on time for a vacation. Many of his business contacts became close friends and enjoyed his relaxed and loyal way of doing business, usually with just a handshake and an invitation to visit Vancouver. Through the years Kuts was always very generous in mentoring young people who wanted to start their own business. In 2002 Kuts and Carol bought recreational property in Lund, BC and spent many summers there with family and friends. Kuts’ artistic talents are evident in many carpentry projects. He was an avid golfer, fisherman, and Jaguar enthusiast. He was an excellent sushi chef and loved cooking Japanese food for friends and family. Kuts will be remembered as a loving husband, a proud and supportive father, an enthusiastic and doting grandpa, a larger than life brother and uncle, and a loyal friend who could always make you laugh with his humour and quick wit.

The family would like to thank St. Jude’s Anglican Home for their exceptional care for Kuts in the last year. In lieu of flowers, a donation to St. Jude’s (stjudes.bc.ca/) would be appreciated. A Celebration of Life will be held at Sage, 6331 Crescent Road, UBC from 3 to 6 pm on Saturday, April 6th. Parking available at Rose Garden parking lot.