May 27, 1927 - April 29, 2022
In loving memory ~
It is with great sadness, the Kondo family wishes to announce the passing of Fujikazu (Ben), beloved husband, brother and uncle.
Eldest son of Tokukazu and Setsue, Fuji was born in Steveston, BC. He passed away at the age of 94 surrounded by family in Salmon Arm, BC.
Fuji is predeceased by his parents, brothers Yoshito, Hiroshi, Toshio, Tamotsu, sister-in-law Chieko and brother-in-law Roy Dolsen. He will be deeply missed by Yoneko, his wife of 74 years, sisters Noriko Labrecque (Wilfred), Yasuko Dolsen, Yoko Nishi (Geoff Lawrence) and sister-in-law Kaoru Nora.
He will also be missed by his many cousins, nieces and nephews, great neighbours and friends from Grand Forks and elsewhere, all who were very special to him.
Ben loved this wonderful town of Grand Forks. He and the Kondo family resided here during the war time, when many Japanese families were relocated to work on farms and sawmills.
Until his retirement, Ben worked as a Millwright for Sandner Brothers Sawmill at Christina Lake. Many happy memories were cherished during these times.
Ben spent many hours fishing, travelling and he loved the outdoors, but most of all he enjoyed his social time with his friends and their families.
Married on January 31, 1948, Ben and Yon resided here until they moved to Salmon Arm to receive medical care in 2019.
As per his wishes, a cremation was held at Bowers Funeral home on May 5, 2022 in Salmon Arm. A memorial service was held at the Steveston Buddhist Temple with Reverend Grant Ikuta conducting the service on June 10, 2022. Interment was held the following day at Valley View Cemetery, in Surrey.
Flowers or Koden, are gratefully declined. If you choose, please donate to a charity of choice in Fuji's memory.
The Kondo family gratefully extends our utmost thank you to the staff at GSS Hillside Village, Salmon Arm for their excellent care and support given to Fuji while he resided there.