James Tsuneo Sato's Obituary
James Tsuneo Sato, 92, of Pukalani, passed away peacefully at Maui Memorial Medical Center on December 27, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.
Services honoring Mr. Sato will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at Nakamura Mortuary. Visitation will begin at 10:00am, with services beginning at 11:00am. Mr. Sato will be laid to rest at Maui Veterans Cemetery privately at a later date.
James was born on February 6, 1925 in Puunene to Shichiroji & Toki Sato, he was the 5th of 10 children. After graduating from Baldwin High School in 1943 as an all-star football player, he was offered a scholarship to the University of Hawaii where he had the opportunity to further both his education and athletic career. However, before accepting the scholarship, James served in the U. S. Army during WWII. Upon his return, he married his high school sweetheart, Ann Oda, and together they raised three children. They also owned and operated Maui Recapping Service together before his retirement.
Mr. Sato loved athletics, especially football and golf, but had a special passion for Sumo wrestling. He had the opportunity to coach and develop a special friendship with a renowned wrestler whose career James followed diligently. He loved joining his golf groups at Waiehu Golf Course and in Pukalani, gardening, and spending time with his family. He was also a proud and active member of the Maui Lions Club.
James was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Jackie Yamamoto.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of over 67 years, Ann M. Sato; daughter, Valerie (Edwin) Yoshimoto; son, Jayson (Jill) Sato; son-in-law, Bob Yamamoto; sisters, Susie Yoshinaga, Dorothy Fujimoto & Joan Higashi; 5 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
Nakamura Mortuary is assisting with arrangements.
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