TAKAHASHI, MITSURU, 84, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2011. In his final days, he was surrounded by family and friends at the Canyon Oaks Nursing Home in Canoga Park, California.

Mr. Takahashi was born on October 6, 1926, in San Fernando, California to Kaoru and Toyoko Takahashi. For part of his life, Mr. Takahashi worked alongside his parents and five siblings as strawberry farmers in West Hills, California. In 1950, Mr. Takahashi spent four years in the army during the Korean War. In 1969, he married Takako Utsumi and had one daughter, Nancy. Mr.Takahashi purchased a home in Canoga Park and subsequently began his career as a landscaper.

He enjoyed playing golf, gardening, and taking trips to Las Vegas. He also enjoyed spending time around his beloved pets. Most importantly, he will be remembered for his incredible sense of humor, honesty, kindness, generosity and optimism.

He is survived by his wife, Takako ; daughter, Nancy ; brothers, Yoshiaki and Masato; sister, Fumiko; also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Private Funeral services were held on March 26 at San Fernando Valley Hongwanji Buddhist Temple, with Rev. Patricia Usuki officiating.