Thomas T. Kawakami

January 1, 2024

Born in the mining town of Standardville, Utah, in 1931, he died in his home in San Mateo on Jan. 1, 2024, getting ready for a New Year’s family meal but also at peace knowing that he’s joining his beloved wife Hana and his siblings Yas, Jun and Renee in eternity. Tom was a teacher and counselor for decades, in his profession and his life. He moved with his family to Salt Lake City, where he helped at his parents’ restaurant, graduated from the University of Utah and then served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, when he was stationed in Japan as a language expert. When he moved to San Francisco, he met Hana Abe at Pine United Methodist Church, beginning a marriage of souls that did not end with Hana’s death in 2006 and shall not end ever. He and his family also found a home at Pine among a vibrant community and fellowship and committed to working with and for the church for the rest of his life. Tom got his teaching credential and taught at Mission High -- where he made lifelong friends among the faculty -- and then Washington High, where he started an Asian Studies program. Meanwhile, he and Hana had four sons and moved to Burlingame. Tom ended his professional career with two decades of counseling at City College of San Francisco, then traveled the world with Hana and enjoyed their grandchildren.

After Hana’s passing, Tom spent so much of his time at the San Mateo Elks Club, playing tennis and making sure he got a swim in every day, that he moved across the street. And the counsel, support and love he provided his family was precious every day. He is survived by his sons, Paul (and his wife Gail), Peter (and his wife Patty), Timothy and Philip and his grandchildren, Christopher, Geoffrey, Jennifer, Kevin, Justin, Matthew and Carly; and his great-grandchildren, Charisse, Cassius, Landan and Noah.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Pine United Methodist Church, 426 33rd Ave., in San Francisco at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 21. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to Pine (415387-1800) or Kimochi Inc. (415-922-9972).