Robert Masao Nakayama

On Wednesday evening, October 23rd, 2019, Robert Masao Nakayama, loving husband and father, passed away at the age of 83. Bob, as known by his friends and family, was born on April 20, 1936 in Hilo, HI. He was 2nd oldest of 8 children born to Kazumasa and Setsu (Higashi) Nakayama. After graduating from Hilo High School in 1954, Bob joined the United States Army and served for 20 years. He retired as a master sergeant with a Bronze Medal from the Vietnam War. He then worked for the Federal Aviation Administration and retired after working for 20 years. On June 24, 1960; he married Anita Imai in Yokohama, Japan. They had one child, Joyce Knowles, who they raised all over the world  while in the military before settling in Tacoma, WA.

Bob will be remembered by his family for his pride and admiration of the accomplishments of his Wife, Daughter and Grandchildren. With the birth of his two great-grandchildren, he would proudly tell everyone how lucky he was to have lived to meet them.

Bob had a passion for serving others best displayed by his time as the President of the Tacoma Buddhist Temple. As the President of the Temple, he represented the Tacoma Temple at multiple national Buddhist conventions and championed the efforts of the Japanese Women’s Association. Those who knew him, knew that Bob was a staunch supporter of the Democratic party and would volunteer to help count ballots and campaign for candidates.

Bob is survived by his wife Anita; his one daughter, Joyce and her husband John; his grandchildren, Emily and Eric; and great-grandchildren, Alex and Kate. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Elaine; and brothers, Wallace and Haruo. His brother, Bert, passed away just after him. He is survived by sisters Lillian, Judy, and Kay; and brother Larry.

A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, November 13th at Tacoma Buddhist Temple at 10:30 AM.