TAKEI, KATSUTO, passed peacefully in his sleep on December 12, 2009, at the age of 94 years.

He grew up in Santa Cruz, Calif., attended the University of California, Berkeley, School of Optometry, graduating in 1937 with honors in Physics-Optometry. He was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa “Honor” Society. Dr. Takei was a longtime resident of Stockton, Calif., where he practiced optometry and raised his family with his wife, Bessie Takei, who predeceased him in 2003.

“Kats” or “Tak,” as his friends liked to call him, was an avid golfer and faithfully watched the golf channel when he could no longer play the game. Until his passing, Katsuto was the last remaining member of his generation in the Takei, Gotanda, and Matsumoto clans of Stockton, Calif.

He was always a kind-hearted gentleman who cared deeply about his family. He is survived by his three children Mrs. Patricia (Allen) Okamoto of San Francisco, Dr. Russell (Linda) Takei of San Leandro, Calif., and Dr. Glenn (Janice) Takei of Arcadia, Calif., as well as his four grandchildren Scott (Amanda) Okamoto, Kara Okamoto, Stefanie Takei and Marc Takei, and one great-grandchild Chloe Patricia Okamoto.

A private memorial service will be held in Stockton.