Jon T. Utsunomiya

July 12, 1956 – September 11, 2020

Jon T. Utsunomiya, 64, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on September 12, 2020 at his Pasadena home.

Jon is survived by his older brother, Wade Utsunomiya; nephew Warren (Roxanne) Utsunomiya; niece, Holly Utsunomiya; and brother in law, Larry Edwards; and many Uncles, Aunts, and Cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Fusae Utsunomiya; and sister, Laura Edwards.

Jon was born in Pasadena, CA, attended Jackson Elementary, Washington Junior High, and John Muir High School.  He attended University of Wyoming on a full swimming scholarship and then graduated from San Jose State University.

He began a 37-year teaching career with LA Unified, retiring in 2016. He graduated in Physical Education and always wanted to be assigned to the PE Dept. and coach.  He had to tolerate being a Math teacher for 17 years before there was an opening in the PE Dept.  Jon became a successful volleyball and basketball coach at L.A.'s Franklin High School, impacting the life's and earning the respect of many students over many years.

Jon always was a good and active athlete.  He excelled in swimming and water polo as a youth and in high school (All CIF) and college.   He also regularly played basketball, volleyball, and golf into his 60's up to his passing.  In all sports, his mechanics were silky smooth, efficient, and effective.  When achieving greatness, he looked like he wasn't even trying.

Jon enjoyed golfing, going to casinos, and going to the "Track".

When Jon retired from teaching in 2016, he spent even more time doing what he loved…golfing, going to casinos, and going to the Track.  On his last day alive, he enjoyed his regular Friday golf outing with his buddies, Mark, Curt, and Terry; and enjoyed their usual lunch and friendship.

Jon was rather quiet socially, but to everyone that was fortunate enough to really know him, he was a conscientious, fun and loving friend. Jon was a loving brother, uncle, and cousin. Those that did know Jon are really missing him.

Due to Covid 19 restrictions, a celebration of life will be considered when safe to do so.