Kenji Miyamoto passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and the love of his family and friends. A private service was held on August 27th at Rose Hills Graveside in Whittier.

Born the youngest of three boys, Kenji grew up in Los Angeles, where he attended Belvedere Elementary School, Belvedere Junior High School, and Garfield High School. At Garfield, he formed lifelong friendships and excelled on the basketball court, playing two years of varsity basketball and earning First Team All-Eastern League honors in 1965.

He continued his education at Los Angeles State College, where he played freshman basketball before, as he liked to joke, "seeing the light" and leaving the game to the bigger boys. While earning his degree in Business Accounting, he became an active member of the Beta Omega Phi service and social fraternity and the Beta accounting fraternity, creating friendships and memories that would last a lifetime.

Before graduating, Kenji enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve in October 1969. He served honorably in an artillery unit, first in Fire Direction Control and later as Survey Unit Leader, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant before his honorable discharge in October 1975. He returned to college to complete his degree in 1971.

That same year, Kenji began what would become a distinguished 35-year career with the California State Board of Equalization. During his career, he also earned his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential before retiring in 2006.

On April 22, 1978, Kenji married the love of his life, Shirley Yano, in her hometown of Reedley, California, surrounded by family and many dear friends. Together they built a loving home where they created a lifetime of memories.

Their greatest joy came with the birth of their children, Matthew in 1983 and Whitney in 1986. Kenji was a devoted husband and father whose quiet strength, patience, and unwavering support shaped the lives of those who knew him. He later welcomed the family's beloved dog, Tater, whose companionship brought him much happiness.

In retirement, Kenji embraced the things he loved most. He enjoyed playing golf, tending his garden, traveling and taking leisurely cruises with Shirley and good friends, and spending peaceful afternoons watching the birds and squirrels in the backyard. He never missed an opportunity to play with the neighborhood dogs or his children's cats, whose company always brought a smile to his face.

More than his accomplishments, Kenji will be remembered for his gentle spirit, kindness, humility, and generous heart. He treated everyone with respect, was always willing to lend a helping hand, and found happiness in life's simple pleasures. His quiet example of compassion, integrity, and love leaves a legacy that will live on through all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.