Obituary
It is with deep sadness the family of Kazuo (Kay) Kitagawa announces the passing of Kazuo (Kay) Kitagawa of Lethbridge beloved husband of Kumiko Rosemary Kitagawa on January 30, 2021. Kay died peacefully in his sleep at the Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge.
As a result of the restrictions regarding COVID-19 and the government recommendations, and respecting dad’s wishes, a private funeral service was held at Christensen Salmon Generations Funeral Home, on Saturday, February 6, 2021 at 3:00 P.M. Cremation has taken place.
Kay is survived by his loving wife of 67 years Kumiko (Rosemary) of Lethbridge, his son Tom (Barbara) of Edmonton, their children granddaughter Kristen (Ryan), great-grandchildren Quinn, Kade and Avery of St Albert, granddaughter Jennifer of Calgary and grandson Rob of Edmonton, daughter Linda (Paul) of Edmonton, and daughter JoAnn of Airdrie, grandson Cole.
Kay is also survived by brothers Kenichi (Ken) of Pincher Creek, sister Minie Nakatsuru of Calgary and Taxi (Doreen) of Calgary, sister in-law Sue Kitagawa (Masaru) of Lethbridge, as well numerous nieces and nephews.
Kay was predeceased by his father Denichiro and mother Iku of Taber, brother Susumu (Susie) of Toronto, Masaru (Mas), of Lethbridge, and brothers Akira, Shigeru and sister Emiko who passed away as infants in Haney B.C., and sister-in-laws Sue (Kenichi) and brother-in-law Roy Nakasturu of Coaldale.
Kay was born April 11, 1926 in Haney B.C. With the onset of World War 2 the family was relocated to New Denver B.C. After a short stay, Kay and his father went into the interior and worked building roads for the duration of the war.
After the war Kay moved to Alberta to seek his fame and fortune. He spent several years working various jobs and met Rosemary along the way. They were married in Taber on April 4, 1953.
They farmed for several years in Taber and in 1960 moved to the Clarindale Farm in Vauxhall. Kay and Rosemary had a very successful irrigation farm operation growing potatoes, sugar beets, grain, peas, alfalfa and even some cattle for a few years. Kay was also one of the founding members who started their own potato.
To send flowers to Kazuo “Kay” Kitagawa’s family, please visit our floral store.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Kazuo Kay Kitagawa April 11 1926 January 29 2021 (age 94)..
Death notice for the town of: Lethbridge, Province: Alberta