YABUMOTO, SHIGERU RICHARD, passed away peacefully after a full lifetime of 98 years.

Born in Penryn, Calif., in 1912, he was the 2nd born of 5 children to Hyoemen and Soyo Yabumoto. The family operated a fruit ranch in Lincoln, Calif., until their incarceration in Tule Lake during World War II. Subsequently they moved to Stockton in 1949, where he worked as a gardener and raised his children.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Kimie; and by four siblings — Kinuyo, Akira, Nao and Tada. He is survived by his five children: Tomiko Jean, Joe (Vivian), Judi, Jeff (Nancy) and Billy (Joi); six grandchildren: Nathan, Nicholas, Justin, Allyson, Kristina and Brad; sisters-in-law: Tomiko, Jane and Wakako; as well as many nephews and nieces.

Mr. Yabumoto was a man of many interests. He was well read in Japanese history and enjoyed historical stories and TV dramas. As president of the Placer Young Men’s Group, he started a judo club, and for many years he practiced go. He was musical, playing the shakuhachi, harmonica and participated in the Stockton “Gardeners Band.” In later years, he was involved in shigin. Also he was always interested in the newest technological equipment of the time.

Mr. Yabumoto continued working in his yard and vegetable garden well into his 90s, even mowing his lawn and driving. He was known for his delicious fuyu persimmons.

There will be a private service for the immediate family.