It is with great sadness that the family announce the passing of Hedao (Al) Tomiye on November 25, 2017 at 87 years of age.
Al was predeceased by his loving wife, Mieko on July 29, 2015, brothers, Tom Tomiye, Charlie Harada, Jimmy Harada, sisters, Aya Tanemura and Tamiyo Kuroda. He is survived by his daughters Lana Tomiye and Caroline (Keven) Watt, granddaughter Sasha Watt, grandson Kai Watt, sisters Michi Dakus and Setsu Kikuchi, nephew Reggie (Donna) Tomiye, niece Diane Katz, and numerous other nieces and nephews.
Al was born in Kelowna on May 5, 1930 and was raised on the family orchard. At age 8, he moved to Kamloops. When he was a young adult, he worked on the family farm and loaded boxcars at a packing house. He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force, Department of National Defense, from 1953 to 1958, where he was an instrument technician. He then started his own business called Al’s Jewelry, where he was a watchmaker and sold jewelry. He then worked for CNR as a car inspector from 1962 until he retired in 1990.
His favorite pastimes were hunting, fishing, gardening, composing poetry, attending social and family gatherings, and honing his practical skills. He had a good sense of humour, was thoughtful, and a creative thinker.
A special thank you to Dr. Howie, Dr. Eccleston, Royal Inland Hospital ER staff and First Responders for their compassionate care.
A Service of Remembrance will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at the Kamloops Buddhist Church on 361 Poplar St, Kamloops BC, V2B 4V9 with Sensei Miyakawa officiating. Tea to follow.
Donations in Al’s memory may be made to Kamloops Buddhist Church on 361 Poplar St, Kamloops BC, V2B 4V9.
4 Tributes
Dear Lana, your father sounds like he was a true artist at heart. The obituary tells of a life well-lived. I am sorry for your loss. Sincerely, Daniela O’Fee
I am sorry for the loss of Al. I met Al through the Ponderosa Day Program. He was a remarkable man, made many friends there and will be missed. He was a wonderful debater, wrote beautiful poetry, and appreciated a good laugh. May you rest in Peace Al. My thoughts and prayers to the family.
Dear Lana and Caroline.
I was saddened to read about your Father’s passing. Please accept my condolences.
I am sorry that I was unable to attend his service. I wanted to show my support. I hope that the memories you have of him help you to get through this most difficult time.
Fondly
Cindy Stewart
hello lana
i ve just been informed surfing on the net about yur dad s death 🙁 my sincere condolances to you and your family .may he rest in peace
laura your french friend
we were penfriends in 1984 thanks to international youth service la