Rev. Shuichi Tom Kurai

Reverend Shuichi Tom Kurai, abbot of Sozenji Buddhist Temple, passed away peacefully at the age of 70 on June 29, 2018. Loving father of Garrett (Evette); grandfather of Cody; brother of Emiko (Gene) Razo and Judy (Richard) Fujii; uncle of Jennifer, Kristen and Tiffani Razo, and Kevin Fujii; he is also survived by other relatives.

Rev. Kurai founded the Taiko Center of Los Angeles. He was an important figure in helping to grow taiko in Los Angeles, the U.S. and beyond. Rev. Kurai was born in Japan and was a longtime resident of Monterey Park.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 18, 7 p.m. at Sozenji Buddhist Temple, 3020 W. Beverly Blvd. in Montebello. A second service will be conducted in November.