Joan Okumura OBITUARY

Joan Okumura OBITUARY

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Joan Nuiko Okumura on Saturday, November 1, 2025.

Joan was born in Vancouver, British Columbia; she was one of 10 Toyama children.

Joan was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Joan grew up in Vancouver and had a happy childhood. She was a tomboy and ran with her brothers. She was also a product of WWII, and her family, like all Japanese families in Vancouver, were interned in the Okanagan Valley, New Denver, British Columbia. Joan spent her high school years there, and after the war, families were moved inland. Her family worked the sugar beets in central Canada and finally landed in Toronto.

Joan was an excellent student and studied at the School of Nursing at Winnipeg General Hospital. She obtained her certificate in public health at the University of Toronto, School of Nursing, serving as a public health nurse. She married Richard Tatsuo Okumura on May 5, 1956, and they lived in Winnipeg, McCreary, and Thunder Bay, Canada. Four children were born in the Winnipeg area while Dick practiced general medicine and completed his specialization. The family moved to San Jose, CA, in 1967 to begin working in the exciting field of orthopedic surgery.

Joan was a great wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She loved entertaining, and people loved her back. She was generous and giving, making everyone feel welcome and appreciated. She was good to everyone; she welcomed all into her home. In her quiet and strong way, she was a productive organizer and dedicated worker for many groups, including the Congregational Church of Almaden, United Church of Christ, Almaden Country Club (she was club champion and hole-in-one golfer), Richard’s medical practice, Gourmet Club, and many of her husband’s and kids’ activities. She was the salt of the earth, and she always said you should be of use, and she always was – serving, giving, and doing.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband Richard, and she is survived by her four children, eight grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.

The family would like to express their thanks and gratitude to Joan’s caregiver, Cynthia, and Evelyn, Cynthia’s sister, for the devotion and kindness extended to Joan.

There will be a service at the Congregational Church of Almaden Valley, United Church of Christ, on January 10, 2026 at 3 pm, with a reception immediately following.