John ‘Johnny’ Masao Aoki, of Lethbridge, beloved husband of Rita Aoki, passed away peacefully on the morning of Tuesday 14 October at the Cedar Creek Lodge (Adaptacare), at the age of 92 years.

John was born in 1933 in Vancouver where he was adopted into the home of shopworkers involved in the food sector in the heart of ‘Japantown’. In 1942 at the age of 9, he and his parents as well as extended family were moved to Nobleford where they worked sugar beets. As he completed his education, and during the farming off seasons, John helped his parents to establish and grow a highly successful western Canadian noodle business. Upon graduating from Taber High School in 1952, John was sparked by his interest in electronics. He acquired a range of certifications including advanced credentials to develop his career as a radio and television technician. John continually sought to expand his skills, adding to his roster of expertise growing areas such as refrigeration, and new competencies including technician management. 

In 1960, John married childhood acquaintance and later teenage sweetheart, Rita Nakagama. Together, as they advanced their work life, they also grew a loving home that included John’s love of dogs , travel with friends, a love of good food and music, and a very close relationship with extended family in Lethbridge. 

In 1979, John embarked on a new adventure as a business owner, co-establishing Trident Key Mart, a key-cutting, giftware, and trophy supply enterprise. His tireless efforts earned him a loyal clientele and reputation for dedication to quality and honesty.

At the age of official retirement, John decided to combine his original interest in electronics and his new love of ‘kibbitzing’ with customers, to forge a new career in appliances and furniture sales, first at Woodwards and then The Bay.  There he grew a highly successful record in sales, becoming a trusted senior figure in the region’s service world. 

Ever enticed by travel, his later years included journeys to America, Japan and Europe where he challenged bartenders in New York, Las Vegas, London, Paris, Nice, and Rome to make him the driest of gin martinis.

Quiet and unassuming yet served by a quick wit, charistmatic sense of humour, discerning taste, an infectious ability to put people at their ease, and generous compassion, John was deeply loved and he will be sorely missed.

John is survived by his wife and son, Darren (Stuart).  He is lovingly remembered by his close extended family and dear friends.

The family would like to extend their deepest thanks to the staff of Ceder Creek Lodge, and to Dr. De Walle for their commitment to his care and comfort in his final years. 

John’s departure will be marked by a private celebration of life.  Koden, flowers, and donations gratefully declined.