We Remember

YAMAOKA, Toshio

August 22, 1917 — February 1, 2013

Toshio passed away peacefully in his 96th year after a brief illness. Toshio is survived by his loving wife Mitsuko (Shirley) of 67 years. His son Gerry (Vicky) Yamaoka, daughter Kathy (Glen) Richdale. Four grandchildren Shaun and Kristy Yamaoka, Josh and Samantha Richdale. One great grandson Jayden Yamaoka. His sister, Shiz Hayashi, sisters in law Chiyoko and Audrey and numerous nieces and nephews.  Toshio was predeceased by his brothers Iwa, Kiyo, and Shuo Yamaoka.

Tosh was born and raised in Kelowna along with his brothers. They all became orchardists in the Rutland Bench area. Tosh retired from farming in the 1980’s and his son took over the orchard.  Tosh was a long-time member of the Kelowna Buddhist Temple and served on the executive for many years.  Tosh and Mitsuko became avid golfers and enjoyed many years as members at Central Park and Kelowna Golf and Country Club.  Tosh will be sadly missed by Mitsuko and the rest of the family and friends who knew him.

The family would like to thank the staff at Cottonwoods, KGH and Brandt’s Creek Mews who have been so kind and caring for Tosh over the past several years.  Most recently the staff and Doctors in the Emergency Room and Six West for their efforts and compassion towards Tosh and his family. Thank-you!

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 7th, 2013 at 7 p.m. at the Kelowna Buddhist Temple, 1089 Borden Avenue, Kelowna, B.C.  A family service will be held on Friday, February 8th, 2013 with internment to follow at Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kelowna Buddhist Temple.

Service
Thursday, February 7th, 2013 at 7 p.m.

Location
Kelowna Buddhist Temple

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In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kelowna Buddhist Temple.

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for YAMAOKA, Toshio is scheduled for Thursday, February 7th, 2013 at 7 p.m.. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

Kelowna Buddhist Temple

1089 Borden Avenue Kelowna, BC

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

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Condolences

  • Marie Raeburn says:
    February 1, 2013 at 9:49 pm

    To Shirley,and family, It is with great sadness of the news that I received from Cathy today about Tosh. My heart and prayers goes out to all of you. I know this will be the most difficult time, may God give you all the strength you will need to get get through these most difficult days and weeks ahead.Your Mom & Dad have been like family to me and I have cherrished all the good times we have all spent together over Christmas Dinners, Birthday parties, and just sitting and visiting and listing to all of Tosh’s stories of all the history of Kelowna. I will dearly miss him. May he rest in peace my special friend. Love and miss you from your special Friend.

    Reply
  • Jacquie and Al Smillie says:
    February 3, 2013 at 2:42 pm

    Dear Vicky, I was saddened to hear of the passing of your father-in-law. You took such good care of him, and you and I shared a few stories about your father-in-law and my mother. Even when, they pass, it is still not easy, and it does get better with time. Please give our condolences to your husband, Gerry. We are out of the country right now but saw your father-in-law’s obituary reading the Courier on-line!
    Sincerely, Jacquie and Al.

    Reply
  • Jay Hunter says:
    February 4, 2013 at 2:14 pm

    Shirley, Gerry,Kathy & families,
    What a great friend Tosh is, we had many great conversations on Buddhism and finance as well. He was always so kind to me making me feel welcome at the temple.As I am standing close to the gate of the universal vow I take great comfort that Toshi san will meet me on the other side. In this time of sorrow you have my deepest sympathy.
    in gassho,
    Jay & Suma

    Reply
  • Fred and Mona Trussell says:
    February 4, 2013 at 6:44 pm

    Shirley, Gerry, Kathy and families:

    So sorry to read about the passing of Tosh.
    Our hearts and prayers go out to you all during this difficult time. We are wintering in S. California and read the obituary online.
    May he rest in peace.
    Fred and Mona Trussell

    Reply
  • Jenny & Masaki Sato says:
    February 4, 2013 at 8:49 pm

    To Shirley, Gerry & Vicky, Kathy & Glen and your families, our deepest sympathy.
    Jenny & Masaki

    Reply
  • Anne Motozono says:
    February 11, 2013 at 3:14 pm

    My mother (Masako Sakamoto) and I
    send our heartfelt sympathy to you, Shirley and your children and families.
    May the many wonderful memories of the past bring you comfort in the days ahead.

    Reply

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