Frank Yoshimura, 96, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 27, 2017, surrounded by family in the comfort of his home in Salt Lake City. Frank, son of Kamejiro Yoshimura and Mura Mizuma Yoshimura was born on June 11, 1921 in Portland, Oregon. As a young adult, he attended the University of Washington, studying pharmaceutical sciences. In the summer of 1942, Frank, along with his family, was unjustly evicted from his home and sent to the Minidoka Internment Camp in Jerome County, Idaho. Life in the Minidoka camp was difficult; however, Frank often recalled finding strength and camaraderie in the Nikkei community. After six months in Minidoka, Frank was allowed to return to college to complete his studies, graduating in 1945. Career aspirations led him to University Pharmacy across the street from the University of Utah campus, where he became the first Japanese-American pharmacist in Salt Lake City. Not only was this the beginning of a decades-long profession, it was also the place where he met the love of his life, Sadie Tanaka. Following a three-year courtship, which involved trips to the local ice cream parlor, dance hall outings, and an abundance of photographs capturing their love for one another, the two were united in marriage on November 26, 1949 and remained together for 68 years. Frank and Sadie welcomed three daughters into the world. Frank’s family was his greatest source of pride and happiness.
Frank was a youth advisor and held leadership positions with the Intermountain District Council of the JACL. He was also the president and a board member of the local chapter for more than 50 years. He proudly served as the committee chairman of the Topaz Monument Project and was an integral part of helping to preserve the memory of those in internment. As an active member of the Japanese Church of Christ, Frank was dedicated to giving back to his community—whether he was handing out food to the homeless or lending a sympathetic ear to someone in need. A true man of character, Frank was intelligent, observant, friendly, and kindhearted—often finding subtle yet meaningful ways of showing he cared. Although Frank was one of the most hardworking individuals, he also had many hobbies, including photography, going on family road trips, golfing, bowling, and skiing, which he enjoyed until age 88. He was an avid U of U sports fan, surprised everyone with his quick-witted comebacks, and never turned down a donut. Frank, as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and loyal friend will be sorely missed, but the impact he made on the lives of so many and the love he shared will continue to live on.
Frank is preceded in death by his parents and sister Miyoi. He is survived by his wife, Sadie; daughters Susan (Glen), Sandy (Kevin), and Debbie (Yosh) (Alan); grandchildren Scott (Amanda), Sara (Wes), Reiko (Alison), Adrian, Lindsay, and Mitchell; great granddaughter, Ria; brother, Art (Sachi), sister Fumi (d-Minoru); and many nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend their gratitude and appreciation to primary care physician Dr. Cynthia Lawlor and Quality Hospice: Jules, Alexis, Tricia, and Ruth.
A viewing will be held on Friday, Sept. 15, 2017 from 5–7 p.m. at Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park and Mortuary, followed by funeral services on Saturday, Sept. 16 at 10 a.m. at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary. Please visit DignityMemorial.com.
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