Akira (Aki) Matsuoka was born on March 9, 1923, in Los Angeles, Calif. and passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at the age of 101 on July 8, 2024.
He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and graduated from Colorado State Teachers College with a bachelor’s degree in education in 1947. He worked for the Port of Los Angeles as a civil engineering draftsman and was the judo and wrestling coach for both the U.S. Naval Station and YMCA in Long Beach.
Aki’s zest for life was reflected in his passions for being with family, coaching, raising his beloved Akita inus, creating beautiful bonsai, USC football and Dodgers, and enjoying good food.
He is survived by his children, Ruth (Phillip) Tsuji, Mary (Stephan) Morikawa, Helen (Allen) Hayashi, and Michael (Angela) Matsuoka; six grandchildren, Stacey, Kristy, Jessica, Kathryn, Aaron, and Kerrie; great-grandchild, Leini; as well as nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his second wife, Shizue (Susie) (d. 2006), and his first wife, Jessie (d. 1973).
He will remain in our hearts forever as we release him into the arms of our loving God. Private services will be held.