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We are an organization dedicated to the preservation of Okinawan customs and traditions. Our membership is comprised of both Okinawans, Okinawan descendants and non-Okinawan members who share our love for the Okinawan culture. There are about two hundred families in the Chicagoland area and we also have many other members from other states like Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, and even California.

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Takashi Kakazu ("Taki") August 15, 1930 -April 6, 2021 

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Takashi (Taki) Kakazu, 90, of Danville, formerly of Chicago, IL, Carlsbad, CA and Sakura Gardens in Los Angeles, CA, passed away peacefully with his granddaughter Kumi by his side on April 6, 2021 at the Villas of Hollybrook, Danville, IL.

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Taki was born in Naha, Okinawa, Japan on August 15, 1930. He immigrated to the United States and graduated from Asbury Theological Seminary. After college, Taki moved to Chicago where he met and married his angel Kaoru (Carol) Utsunomiya on December 29, 1956.

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He spent most of his professional life working for Japan Air Lines in administration. Taki loved music and especially enjoyed singing, both in groups (church choirs) as well as solo (karaoke). He often serenaded friends on their birthdays and shared his spiritual comfort through prayers with family and friends.   He served as president of the Chicago Okinawa Kenjinkai for many years and supported the Japanese community through annual events and festivals.

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Lovingly called "Oji Chan," he will be missed by daughter Rebecca Kimiko Wauthier and Gary Spezia of Danville, IL, daughter-inlaw Maria Chow-Kakazu of Alhambra, CA, and grandchildren, Nathan Wauthier of La Mesa, CA, Kumi Wauthier of Waltham, MA, Lauren Kakazu and Ashley Kakazu of Alhambra, CA. He will also be missed by numerous other dear in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.

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Taki was preceded in death by his parents, wife Kaoru and son, Thomas Hiroki Kakazu. 

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The family would like to thank the Villas of Hollybrook staff for the wonderful care and friendship they gave to Taki and his family. We also thank Traditions Hospice and the Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville, IL for their support and assistance.

 

A Celebration of Taki's life will be held later this summer in Chicago, IL. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center 3940 N Vermilion St., Danville, Illinois 61834 is assisting the family with arrangements.

 

Please join Taki's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on his tribute wall at . 

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