ROBERT HAJIME AMADATSU

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ROBERT HAJIME AMADATSU June 28, 1936 - June 11, 2007 It is with deepest sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Robert, devoted husband, father, and cousin on June 11, 2007 at the youthful age of 70 at the St. Boniface Hospital. Robert was predeceased by his parents Namiko (Grace) and Tsuneharu (Dutch). Robert is survived by his loving wife Doreen, and son Jonathan. Robert is also survived by aunt Connie Matsuo (Mark Koga) Winnipeg, cousins Jean, Ted (Caroline), and Tom Amadatsu of British Columbia, and Janet (Leonard) Matsukubo of Toronto, Sharon (Ron) Buss of Golden, BC and Rodney (Jan) Matsuo of Australia. Robert was born in Vancouver, BC on June 28, 1936. During the Second World War, Robert and his parents were evacuated to Fannystile, MB in 1942. Following a short stay in Fannystile, Robert and his family moved to Port Arthur, ON, and then moved to Winnipeg, MB in 1950. While growing up in East Kildonan, he taught himself to play guitar, banjo, and later formed a folk group with friends Ted Nakai, and Bob Sudak. In September 1955, he started working in the photography business at Winnipeg Studios (later National School Services and then Jostens) and as Quality Sales Control Coordinator, retired from Jostens in 2001. Following a heart attack in 1985, Robert joined the Kinsmen Reh-Fit Centre where Robert and his wife remained an active member up until his death. In 1995, Robert and Doreen discovered ballroom dancing and joined the Westview Dance Club where he served on the Executive Board for six years. After serving on the board, he became known as Westview's unofficial photographer. He also set up a web page dedicated to showcasing the people and events and set up the quarterly publication Westview Whispers. His last issue was for May 2007. Robert's many loves included travelling, reading, doing crossword puzzles and taking cruises with his many friends. His most recent and most enjoyable cruise went to Italy, Spain, and the Caribbean in a trans-Atlantic 22-day cruise. The family wishes to thank the fire paramedics Rescue 4 at Station 4 for their quick response as well as the ER staff at St. Boniface Hospital for their efforts. All of our friends are encouraged to join us in celebrating Robert's life at Knox United Church located at 400 Edmonton St. (942-4579). Memorial service will start promptly at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 15, with refreshments to follow. Rev. Bill Millar officiating. If friends so wish, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any one of Robert's supported charities: Manitoba Japanese Cultural Centre, 180 McPhillips St., Winnipeg, MB, R3E 2J9; Quagga Stray Cat Rescue, 970 St. Mary's Rd. Winnipeg, MB, R2M 3R8; or Knox United Church, 400 Edmonton St., Winnipeg, MB R3B 2M2. Arrangements entrusted to: Chapel Lawn Funeral Home 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 14, 2007