Memorial services for the late Joe Katsumi Shintaku, an 89 year old, Auburn, California-born Nisei resident of San Francisco and WWII veteran of the highly decorated 442nd RCT and Purple Heart recipient who peacefully passed away on October 7 were held privately.

After serving his country during WWII, Mr. Shintaku enrolled in aviation school in Oklahoma, and later moved to San Francisco to begin work at American Airlines. After over 35 years with American Airlines, he retired as a refrigeration mechanic. In his retirement he devoted over 30 years to Kimochi Inc. as a volunteer for the Senior Lunch Program, and additional volunteer service with the Hamilton Senior Center. In his spare time he also enjoyed Shingin, Karaoke and Ballroom Dancing.

Predeceased by his first wife, Cora Shintaku, and his baby-sister, Hisaye Shintaku. Beloved husband of Yasuko Shintaku; father of Mayumi de la Cruz Guillermo; grandfather of Marissa; brother of Shizuko (Matsubara), Masami (Mike), Michiye (Hanamoto), and Toshimi (George).