AOKI, Sadao Richard “Dick”- With his family by his side, Dick Aoki passed away peacefully at home in his 91st year on January 18, 2022.
He is survived by his wife Marcia, his daughter Jill, grandsons Malivai and Makoto, fur granddaughter Moira, in-laws and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his daughter Janice, brother William “Bill” and sister Meiko “May”.
Born in Vancouver, B.C., Dick, as a Japanese Canadian, was sent with his siblings and parents George Tameo and Kiyoko “Kiyo” to the Tashme Internment Camp at a young age. He moved to Toronto following the war where he spent the remainder of his life.
In 1957, Dick met his wife, Marcia Suzuki, who he wed in 1958. Dick was a devoted partner to Marcia. Married for 63 years, together they built a strong partnership, enjoying each other’s companionship and supporting each other through life’s journey.
He had a long career with Northern Telecom. One of the many sacrifices he made for his family was working out of town at various points of his career. He worked throughout Ontario and in the early 70’s spent a year setting up phone lines in Nigeria. In the 80’s he worked in Las Vegas, Turkey and Vancouver.
Dick enjoyed sports and excelled at baseball in his youth. He maintained that love of baseball as a fan of the Toronto Blue Jays and enjoyed attending games with his grandson, watching him run bases as a Jr. Jay after games. Dick played high school football and rugby. One highlight was him being named a Toronto Senior Football All-Star in 1950. Dick was a championship bowler, a sport he enjoyed playing into his 80’s with his wife and friends.
Dick had a tremendous sense of humour, always looking for the positive and joy in life. Even through his illness, he maintained his smile and found moments of humour, sharing his laughter with us.
Dick was a loving, supportive and hands-on father who loved his daughters unconditionally. Memories of him taking his daughter Janice to ballet lessons on Eglinton and his daughter Jill to soccer games across Ontario, Canada and the States are revered. As a father, he exemplified hard-work, integrity and loyalty. He stood strong for what was right and just, a trait passed down to his children and grandchildren.
Dick loved his family and enjoyed being a grandfather. Time spent with his grandsons have left many wonderful memories that will be treasured. Jiji’s wisdom shared through example and long, honest discussions with his grandson is a gift that will last a lifetime.
Dick lived a purpose filled and meaningful life, and will be greatly missed. We know he loved us and he knew we loved him. While there is much sorrow in his passing, we take comfort in knowing it was our beloved dad/ husband/grandfather’s time to rest his weary body and go home to reunite with loved ones.
At his request, there will be no funeral. A celebration of life will be held with family.
In memory of Sadao Richard Aoki, donations to the David Suzuki Foundation would be appreciated by his family.