F. James Yamakawa, DDS October 30, 1929 – January 30, 2022 Resident of San Jose F. James Yamakawa was born in San Jose on October 30, 1929 to Hiromu and Chika Yamakawa. He was the last of the five siblings, Toshio, Masami, Alan (Linda), and Joyce (Pat) Itatani. He passed away peacefully on January 30, 2022 with his loving wife, Grace, by his bedside.
During the War, the family relocated to Arizona, Idaho, and Utah and returned to San Jose in 1946. Jim graduated from San Jose High School in 1947, San Jose State College in 1951, and University of California, San Francisco College of Dentistry in 1956. Upon graduation from Dental School, he volunteered for the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany for 3 years. In Germany, he made lasting friendships, and even after being discharged from military service, he visited his German friends every year, having made 50 trips back to Ansbach, Germany.
In 1960 he opened his dental practice in Los Gatos, and after 32 years of practice, he retired in 1992. He enjoyed being with friends and family, golfing, traveling and fine dining. In retirement, he discovered cruising, and he and Grace cruised to many countries in six continents.
He leaves behind Grace, his loving wife of 49 years, 16 nephews and nieces, 13 great-nephews and nieces, and 2 great-great-nephews. Due to the constraints of the pandemic, a private family service was held. If you wish, donations may be made to Yu-Ai Kai Senior Community Center, San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, or your favorite charity in memory of James Yamakawa.
