June 20, 1926 – October 12, 2025
Kazuo George Sugimoto, 99, born in Parlier, California, passed away peacefully at his home in Pasadena, with his daughter, Lisa, and son, Nathan, by his side. George was an entrepreneur and philanthropist. He was the founder of KGS Electronics, a successful avionics electronics company that has been in business for over 50 years. He built KGS based on two important business principles, “Situation Awareness” and “Longevity.” He grew his business and flew his Piper Turbo Arrow based on situation awareness — combining new information with existing knowledge to create a picture of the future and possible courses of action to take. His many business decisions and philanthropic endeavors exemplify his principle of longevity: “Make sure that what’s here today is here tomorrow.”
George was married to Ruri Hirano, who predeceased him in 2016. George and Ruri lived in Pasadena and South Pasadena during their 65 years of marriage. George was a humble man, a caring and loving husband to Ruri, and a great father and role model to Lisa and Nathan. He lived simply, enjoying with passion the game of golf, which he believed created opportunities to bring friends and family together.
George and Ruri’s children, Lisa (Donald) and Nathan (Christine), treasure the time they spent with their parents and are grateful for their dedication to raising “good children.” Grandchildren, Lindsay, Alyssa (Jackson), Aaron and Garrett, admire the love their grandparents shared and the devotion they had to family.
In addition to his immediate family, George is survived by other relatives and many nieces and nephews.
There will be a private service with family and a celebration of life to be announced at a later date.
www.fukuimortuary.com (213) 626-0441