It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of George Tetsuo Iwata, on Friday, February 10, 2023. George passed away at Sunnybrook Hospital unexpectedly after a sudden illness. He lived to a wonderful age of 97 and will be missed. He is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 64 years, Barbara Iwata. He will also be missed by his 4 nieces, (Carolyn, Julie, Laura, Mary), 2 nephews, (Bobby, Sean), 2 cousins, (Margaret, Tak), brother-in-law, (Takashi) and sister-in-law, (Nobuko). Predeceased by his 3 younger brothers, (Roy, Fred and Joe).

At a dance hall in his youth, George asked out the cutest girl he saw and fell in love with Barbie. He and the love of his life, made a wonderful life together, travelling the world and became the family we knew. George and Barbie had no children of their own, but cherished their niece, Mary and her husband, (Michael), as if they were their own children. He loved the Blue Jays and was a gracious and proud fan of his home team since the club’s inception. In his younger years he travelled with Barbie, alongside with the Blue Jays to their away games. His passions extended beyond baseball into stamp and coin collecting, amounting to an extensive and personal collection. Always smart and quick witted, George loved to share stories that were both heartwarming and reflected his humour. He showed his appreciation for all his friends and family, often organizing outings and dinners together. With 97 years of life experience, he still had the mind of someone much younger and had an understanding of the changing world around him. Even at the age of 97, George was fiercely independent and proudly so. George will be dearly missed by all of his family and friends and be forever in our hearts.

A Tribute Gift in Memory of George Iwata may be made to JCCC (Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre) or a charity of your choice.

https://jccc.on.ca/join-support/donate/make-donation