Tetsuya Nakayama, 27-year-old Japan-born student residing in Bakersfield, Calif., passed away on April 27. A memorial gathering was held on May 6 at Fukui Mortuary Chapel.

"Tetsuya met many people, made many life-time friends, and made great memories. He must have been the happiest in his life here in Bakersfield, surrounded by his buddies. Best brother, Tetsuya. Thank you. I love you always." - Katsuya Nakayama

"In order for the world be be filled with love and happiness, it is necessary that we approach child education in earliest. I want to take a huge part in its strive." - an excerpt from Tetsuya Nakayama's diary.