Joseph (Joe) Kamaya

February 26, 1936 - July 9, 2020

Joseph “Joe” Kamaya was 84 years old and passed away peacefully on July 9 after his health declined from COVID-19. 
 
Born in Oregon on February 26, 1936 to Shintaro Kamaya and Shizuko Akiyama Kamaya. Joe was one of eight children and lived in Oregon until the family was taken to Minidoka Internment Camp in Idaho. The family was released in 1945 and eventually settled in Salt Lake City.
 
Joe graduated from West High school. He then enlisted in the army and served his country with honor.  
 
In 1959, he married his life partner and love of his life Rose Kawaguchi. They had 4 children. It was his passion to always look out for the well being of his family. He enjoyed cooking, sharing a good meal and laughter with family and friends. He always made everyone feel welcomed. He was an avid bowler, golfer, and fisherman until his unexpected health issues changed his life. His strong will, determination and love for family to overcome his health issues kept him going many years as he could still enjoy a good meal, watch a ballgame, play poker, do yard work, and an occasional trip to Wendover.
 
Survived by his loving wife Rose Kamaya; children Shauna Hiranaka (Glenn), Kevin Kamaya (Stacy) and Darin Kamaya; two grandchildren Kristin Hiranaka and Brent Hiranaka.
 
Preceded in death by son Kurtis Dean Kamaya, both parents, brothers Robert “Jun” Kamaya, James “Stone” Kamaya, and sisters Fumi Ogawa (Jenshi), Roberta “Minko” Chin.
 
Of his 7 siblings, he is survived by three, George “Kaz” Kamaya (Carol deceased), Ruth Oda (Kohae deceased), Jane Watanuki (Tommy), brother-in-law Sam Chin, and many nieces and nephews.
 
Our family wishes to express our deepest gratitude and sincere appreciation to the staff at Legacy Village Rehabilitation for their compassion and comfort care during his stay.
 
Due to the current pandemic and social distancing guidelines, no public viewing or service will be held. 

In Loving Memory

Rose, DJ, Kevin and entire Kamaya family.....Sorry to hear about Joe, we send our deepest condolences. The Bailey's.

Brian Bailey

Salt Lake City, Ut

Rose,there are no words to say, that would change the hurt in your heart. You & the children have long beautiful memories, our memories are of our friendship, children growing together,talks,going to Obon, so many he wil be forever in my memory. He is not in pain any more,can walk, talk, Rose you gave him extra life..Ethel

Ethel Taylor

Mesquite, NV

Shauna and Family; So sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. Your all in my thoughts and prayers.

Tami Collins Anderson

Salt Lake City, UT

Joe was a special guy- my husband always spoke so fondly of him. My sympathy to his family. -Peeches Cederholm, wife of Wayne Cederholm II (deceased 2013)

Peeches Cederholm

Holliday, Ut

Your loved one "Joe" is warmly remembered and your sorrow is held in our hearts and thoughts. With sympathy, love and understanding. Rose, Troy Davis, Monique Vos and family.

Troy Davis

Salt Lake, UT

Rose, our deepest sympathies to you and your family - Junko & Reiko Mitsunaga

Reiko Mitsunaga

Salt Lake City, UT

In Loving Memory

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