Bill H. Hayakawa
Bill passed away on February 15, 2021 at the age of 92, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Helen; 4 children: John Hayakawa (Mary McHugh), Gary Hayakawa, Karen Natsuhara (Dr. Kenneth) and Susan Snailer (Ross); sisters Kay Mori and Mary Sata; sister-in-law Mae Suto; and many nieces and nephews. Bill was blessed with 5 grandchildren: Dr. Kyle Natsuhara (Shannon), Dr. Kelsey Natsuhara (Dr. Troy VanDerGroen), Rachel Hayakawa, Samantha and Kaitlyn Snailer and 2 great-grandchildren: Noah and Hannah Natsuhara. He was preceded in death by his sister Ida Kunitsugu.
Bill was interned at Heart Mountain Relocation Camp in Wyoming during WWII. At the end of the war, he enlisted in the Army where he served honorably for 4 years, stationed in Germany and received the Victory and Army Occupation Medals. After his discharge, he completed his education specializing in automotive body and fender and worked for the Ford Motor Co. for 40 years. Bill enjoyed camping and fishing trips with his family and loved bowling and golfing. He was an active member in the Nisei VFW Post 9938 in L.A., serving as president and organized many Heart Mountain Reunions. He loved spending time with family and friends. A memorial service at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church will be delayed until it is safe to gather.