Naosaki was simply a great man. He was my Coach at York from 1978-1981 and we both went to the 25th Olympic Games in Barcelona as Coaches. We did see eye to eye and clearly on our sport. It is with heavy heart and sadness to learn of a giant of gymnastics in Canada passing. Job well done Naosaki, job very well done. With great respect and sadness, but thankful we walked together!

Thomas N. Bertrand

I will always remember Nao’s sense of humour and the kind way he treated everyone.  I will also never forget the first time I saw him really performing a high bar routine.  Just an amazing athlete.  So sad to hear about his sudden passing and deepest condolences to his family and friends..

I was saddened when I heard of Nao's passing. As one of the coaching colleagues  (volleyball), at York University, we often interacted as we passed before or after practices. He always seemed to have a mischievous twinkle in his eyes and would offer a greeting or make a comment. 

His coaching record was the envy of all coaches at the institution. I am sorry I was out of the country and not able to attend the funeral/celebration of life.

Condolences to the family.

My deepest sympathies to your family.   I had the privilege of working for Maasaki during his time as the York University Gymnastics coach and PKIN instructor.  He was always kind to all with a happy demeanor and a smile on his face. 

Vicky Artamonov

My sincere condolences to Nao’s family and friends. 

Nao was one of the kindest people I have ever known. He was always more than happy to help everyone in the gym regardless of their skill level. One of my fondest memories, from almost half a century ago, was how Nao never hesitated to spot me even though I was one of the heaviest gymnasts (possibly that ever lived) - heavier than steel cables holding the rings could withstand. I always felt safe when Nao was spotting. Another great memory was that of strength training at the end of practice, where Nao’s handstand pushups (on his mini parallel bars) seemed so smooth and effortless (like his Stalder shoots on the high bar). But during this strength workout (and at all other times) Nao was always focused on encouraging and supporting others. By example, Nao instilled self-discipline, patience, perseverance, and comradery in all who trained under his guidance.

I remember Mao with great fondness. A true gentleman! He made a memorable trip to PEI in August 88 or 89 with Curtis & Allen Reddin to do a demonstration at the racetrack (outdoors)in front of 8,000+ horse race fans!! We also enjoyed deep sea fishing ! It was a tremendous experience. 
Condolences from Lea & Jim Rand

Sad times for the family and gymnastics community, especially here in Canada.  🍁 Here is my 7 cartwheel salute in honour of his contributions.🤸🏿‍♂️🤸🏿‍♂️🤸🏿‍♂️🤸🏿‍♂️🤸🏿‍♂️🤸🏿‍♂️🤸🏿‍♂️

We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Nao. He touched countless lives with his passion for gymnastics and unwavering dedication to his craft. His calming spirit and commitment to excellence inspired us all at York University. He was not only our coach & leader but a good friend who always wanted the best for all in the teams he nurtured. The many dinners together sharing his culture and his  gymnastics prowess inspired us all. Though he may be gone, his legacy of leadership and mentorship will forever live on in the hearts of those he coached. Rest in peace, Nao, you will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Our deepest condolences to his family from ours:  Dave & Lise Goertz

My condolences to the family of Naosaki. 

Any who knew Nao as a gymnast knew that we all aspired to look as good as him, even during those moments when he would mess up. His gymnastics had a distinct sense of artistry. 

Most would likely agree that he was a man of few words. When I was about 18, roughly the time that I qualified for the national team many years ago, I observed that I was putting in more time and effort than he was (he was both coaching and training at the time). With a measured level of frustration I asked him:
“Why do I have to train longer and harder than you?”
He answered in his typical Mr. Miyagi manner. He was succinct. 
“I…better than you.”

My very sincere condolences your family.

With this deep sadness of your loss comes a cascade of wonderful  memories that remind me of how you challenged us to climb mountains and then move them.
You were a tremendously gifted Mentor, Coach and Friend who taught us to enjoy every moment of our journey together and most of all share new knowledge with others in Canada.

Yes Shaun,
Always looking for a good chuckle, Nao loved wrestling with our physio trainer Big Ed at 320 Lbs. 
( You two were very close to wrestling Big Ed down in Montreal....Nao Tried again in Holland...but was distracted when Curtis Hibbert won his first World Championship Medal and ... Big Ed landed firmly on the floor ...) 

There are countless other memories we can all share from Morning Zaridska training to shared family meals and memories at Nao's Wedding in Japan.

Nao's quiet, kind and enormous spirit will live within our hearts forever.

So sorry to lose you so soon, Nao.  I well remember when you arrived in Canada and York U.  You had a transformative affect on our sport, and on my life.  I can clearly remember the specific weekend that "The Roses" changed from European to Japanese style gymnastics.  (Not so sure about "The Thorns"...).  I remember many hours in the gym with Nao (and marveling at his smooth and seemingly effortless swings), and (too many) parties where Nao was the quiet gentleman (unlike many others of us).  
I wish you a peaceful journey, and peace and good memories for your family.

I am so saddened to hear of Mr. Naosaki’s passing. Mr. Naosaki was my coach while I attended York University and he was an amazing mentor and such a caring and giving person. After university I became a full time coach and continued to see and travel with Mr. Naosaki including several trips together to Japan. Most of the essence of what I learned about coaching I learned from Mr. Naosaki. He touched the lives of many many people in a profound way. My condolences to his family and friends. 
Michael Hood

My sincere condolences to the family. 

In the wake of Nao's passing, I am flooded with so many memories. Nao was a beacon of kindness, talent, and humor. His presence illuminated the lives of all fortunate enough to know him. Nao was a gifted gymnast and coach.  He mentored countless gymnasts, friends, and colleagues. His guidance and support were unwavering.

I recall the exhilaration of gymnastics at York University, the camaraderie forged through the many trips to competitions and coaching in Truro, Nova Scotia; and, the breathtaking journey along the Cabot Trail. Nao warmly opened his home to host gatherings of friends and family, creating lasting bonds and memories.

Nao's spirit will endure.

Sadden to hear of Masaaki's passing.  He was a kind, gifted athlete that always had a smile and encouraged us gymnasts to do our best.  When ever he demonstrated a gymnastic movement, it was with power, fluid and grace.
He had a big impact on my life since his arrival in Canada, teaching me gymnastics when I was in High School and while attending York University.  The picture I posted was taken during his induction into the York University Sport Hall of Fame in 2010.  He had a dry, witty sense of humour: he mentioned to me that this picture should be on the cover of GQ Magazine.

I am 54 years old now and far removed from my gymnastics days.   I remember great times on the National team with Nao.   He had an awesome dry sense of humour and would drop a hilarious straight faced comment that would double everyone over laughing.   I remember when I was 13 years old and was an alternate in a competition and had to stay in a hotel room with my coach, Dave Arnold and our team trainer, Big Ed.   I had always regarded Nao as serious and witnessed another side of him when Nao, Bob Carisse and my coach Dave all tried their hardest to lay a beat down on Big Ed.   Ed Threw them all around the room like children but Nao didn't let up and kept coming back again and again.   It was hilarious and terrifying for a 13 year old but I found a new respect and appreciation for Naosaki.   I'm sure he will be remembered fondly by all the gymnasts who knew him.  R.I.P.

OBITUARY

Masaaki Naosaki

September 17, 1948 – March 8, 2024

Kane-Jerrett Funeral Homes

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