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On August 27, 2015, three weeks before his 90th birthday, Akira (Al), peacefully passed away with his family by his side.

Al was born on September 17, 1925 in Haney, BC to the late Mokichi and Tomoye Sakiyama, the fourth of six children. Al was a teenager at the time of WWII, when his family and all people of Japanese descent in BC were forced to leave their homes and belongings because of the government imposed evacuation. The Sakiyamas were relocated to work at a sugar beet farm in Manitoba.

As a young man, Al was employed as a bush worker and later learned the trade of carpentry from his Uncle Miki. Initially, Al and his brothers established “OK Builders” in Winnipeg.

This is where he began his life long career of building homes of distinction. At this time, Al met Kazuko (Kay) and they were married in 1953. They celebrated 62 years of marriage this past June. In 1955, Al moved his young family to Port Arthur. Along with his brothers, Mel and Min, they proudly began their successful construction business, Sakiyama Homes. For almost three decades they built fine, quality homes for the residents of Thunder Bay. Al instilled his pride in the profession to his sons who continue building homes today.

Al’s main interest was his family. He loved to golf and to spend time at the family camp at Eldorado Beach. In his retirement, Al and Kay were often seen enjoying lunch together at their favourite restaurants. Together they took many trips, Hawaii being a frequent destination. It was well known that “Al loved to travel and Kay loved to come home!”

Al was a past member of the The Lakehead Home Builders Association, the Masons and the Shriners.

Al will be lovingly remembered by his wife Kay; his four children: Darryl (Barbara), Mike (Anita), Christine (Hugh), and Doug (Connie); his eight grandchildren: Keeler, Drew(Erin), Brett, Blair, Carter, Liam, Barrett and Hannah. He is survived by his sister, Miyo, as well as, numerous nieces and nephews. Al was predeceased by his parents: Mokichi and Tomoye; his brothers: Mel, Shig and Min and his sister, Hiroko.

Cremation has taken place. A private family internment will be at a later date. Should family and friends so desire, donations may be made in Al’s memory to St. Joseph’s Foundation - Hospice Unit.

The family would like to thank Dr. J. Stamler and Patty, Elsie, and all hospice staff for their compassionate care for Al and his family. A special thanks to Paula.

 

 




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