Roy Shizuka Yamamoto

Roy is survived by his brother, Paul Yamamoto, and sister, Lisa Yamamoto. Roy was predeceased by his father Takeshi Yamamoto, his mother Sachiko Yamamoto, and his Aunt Kunie Yamamoto.

Roy was born on January 29, 1964. He was diagnosed with Achondroplasia at birth, and his parents were told that he would never walk. But he overcame this challenge with determination and strength and showed us all not to bet against him. Roy walked, ran, and was very mobile for the next 56 years of his life.

As a kid, he loved RC cars, fishing, minibikes, and skateboarding. Later in life, he enjoyed snowboarding, cars, music, and taking his boat out fishing with friends. He loved being around people.

Roy was very outgoing and friendly, making many friends at school and at work. We would always hear a, “What’s up Roy” everywhere we went. Though he was small, he had a big heart and a great sense of humor that touched so many people. It was important to him to stay connected with his friends.

Roy was Cleveland High School class of 1982. He graduated from North Seattle Community College with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electronics Technology. His first job was at Interpoint and then at Paine Corporation where he was a Micro Electronics Assembler. From there he joined Boeing as an Electronics Technician for the next 20 years, retiring in 2021.

In retirement, Roy enjoyed hanging out with his family of friends and nephews Taiken and Jaden, liked watching sports, appreciated his music, and drove his car everywhere. Roy loved to drive. He may have had difficulty walking but nothing would stop him from driving his car anywhere and everywhere.

Roy began having difficulties with his mobility around the time when the Covid pandemic started. He had back and spine surgery, and diabetes that affected the nerves in his legs. But he still had his determination to not let anything stop him from living on his terms. He was looking forward to getting a scooter and going back to school for some computer classes. He was excited about exercising with friends and enjoying retirement.

Roy lived independently and lived a life always doing what he wanted. He had so many ideas and numerous car, bike, and home projects in the works, keeping himself and everyone around him busy.

There is no doubt, Roy was surrounded by many friends and will always be. We will miss him greatly and will remember the huge impact he had on all the people he welcomed into his life.

A private graveside service will be held at Greenwood Memorial in Renton, Washington on December 17th, 2022. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association.