A memorial service is planned tomorrow for Shuzo Chris Kato, a longtime educator who was a former Chief Sealth (pre-International) High School principal, among many other things. His family shares this remembrance:
Shuzo Chris Kato passed away peacefully on February 7, 2012 at the age of 85 after a battle with cancer. During WWII, his family was sent to Minidoka Relocation Center in Hunt, ID. Shuzo graduated high school while in camp from Hunt High. He served in the Army from 1945-1947.
Shuzo attended Bethel College and the University of Washington where he majored in Engineering. He married Jean Kawachi in 1958 and they raised their family in Seattle. He earned a Masters degree in Chemistry from Oregon State University and his Administrator credentials from Seattle University. An avid judoist and sensei, Shuzo did judo for 60 years and taught judo for 43 years, winning a National Judo Championship in 1957 and earning a 7th-degree black belt. He began his teaching career with the Seattle School District in 1953. He taught at Denny Jr. High, Mercer Jr. High, and Queen Anne High. He was a Vice Principal at Sharples Jr. High and at Cleveland High. He retired as Principal of Chief Sealth High after 36 years in education.
Shuzo was well known for his artistic talent, Japanese cooking and love of a good bargain. He enjoyed traveling, spending time with friends and family, cheering on his grandchildren at events, rooting for Seattle sports teams, and trying his luck at the local casinos.
Shuzo was preceded in death by his parents and 5 brothers. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Jean; son, Kent (Bonita); daughters, Cindi (Rick) Kato-Yokoyama, Diana (Steve) Celle, Rose (Lance) Gyotoku; seven grandchildren, Kayla, Kelsey, Kai, Staci, Kyle, Dillon and Paige; brother, Hideo (Janet); sister-in-law, Lillian; numerous nieces and nephews, and relatives in Japan. Shuzo was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.
A memorial service in celebration of Shuzo’s life will be held on Saturday, February 25 at 2 pm at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church (3001 24th Ave. S., Seattle, WA, 98144). In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church. You may also share your memories of Shuzo by visiting the online guestbook at http://bonneywatson.com.
(WSB publishes obituaries at no charge; send text and photo to editor@westseattleblog.com)
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