Carl K. Tohinaka

June 4, 1945 - March 31, 2026

Carl Kaeru Tohinaka, born June 4^th, 1945, died in the early hours of March 31, 2026, after succumbing to cancer due to exposure to Agent Orange while serving in Vietnam (September 1965-September 1967). He was honorably discharged as a Private First Class and received the National Defense Service Medal, Expert Badge (rifle), Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. Despite health challenges he returned home to run the family’s Sage Farm Market on Main Street in Salt Lake City with his wife, Shizuko who preceded him in death January 9, 2004.

Also is preceded in death by his parents, Ayako and Kazuso, and siblings Sue (Neechan) and Ken (Niichan). Carl is survived by his siblings Janice Jarrett and Ray Tohinaka, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He found companionship at the VA nursing home in his later years, and the family is thankful for the care and attention Carl received there.

Carl will be remembered for his sweet tooth, his love of dogs, and his enduring sense of community.

In Loving Memory

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I have known Carl since the 1st grade at Hawthorne Elementary School. We were at both Lincoln Jr & South High together! Carl was always full of “gusto”! He knew exactly where he was going and nothing got in his way. I loved going to the Sage Market. Everyone was always so nice. Just wanted to reach out to Carl’s family. I think Carl was GREAT! Always a positive attitude 😊. Miss him, Randy Buchmiller

Randy Buchmiller

Sandy,, Utah

Carl was a roommate of my father Nick F. at the Salt Lake Veterans Home a few years ago. Carl was very kind and helpful to my dad, who was much older and needed assistance. Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the Home was in lockdown, Carl helped my dad maintain telephone contact with our family. Carl was a good guy.

Robert Flores

SLC, UT

I only knew Carl through my numerous shopping trips to Sage Farm. He loved teasing me - especially about my lack of knowledge regarding so many Japanese dishes. I enjoyed our bantering. He was always helpful, friendly and positive. Our sincere condolences to his family and close friends. Tom & Edie Mitko

Edith Mitko

Salt Lake City, UT

In Loving Memory

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