James Hikari Higashida

“Life is tough” was his life’s motto. A humble farmer turned successful realtor, he tended to his life as he tended to his crops. With hard work and insatiable determination, he cultivated a loving family and astounding success.

James “Jim” Hikari Higashida, a longtime resident of the San Fernando Valley, passed away on February 14, 2021, at the age of 92.

The yearbook signatures from his classmates at the Manzanar internment camp high school said it best — “You’re a swell guy!” Everyone knew that James was more than your everyday “nice guy”; he was a modern day Renaissance man. He had the greenest thumb, was the most dedicated fisherman, and will forever be the most adoring father and grandpa. Within months of joining his real estate agency, he quickly joined the community of elite realtors in the million-dollar-club. His “swell” personality drove his continued success as a top salesman year after year.

Despite these personal and professional accomplishments, James was a humble goofball who never bragged about himself and placed his top pride in his family. With his whimsical, loving, and mischievous soul he was frequently seen giggling after pulling pranks on his kids and grandkids, making funny faces, and trying out different vocal tones to test his silly-sound-making capabilities.

A loving husband, dad, father-in-law, and Jichan, James will always be remembered as a devoted member of the San Fernando Valley Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, a Green Onion King of the Valley, a YouTube cooking video enthusiast, a “champ-ee-ohn” (a.k.a. Champion) angler, and a spam musubi maker extraordinaire.

He is forever loved by his children, Kathy Kozai (Gerald), Neil (Donna) Higashida, and Terri (Chuck) Amano; grandchildren, Kendall (Ross Psyhogios) and Kassidy Kozai, Bryan and Riki Higashida, and Cameron and Danny Amano; as well as by his nieces, nephews and other loving relatives. He is preceded by the passing of his wife, Rose Higashida.

Due to COVID-restrictions, James’ celebration of life will be held on a future date.