Shigeru Steve Takeuchi

In loving memory of a cherished father and brother, Shigeru 'Steve'
Takeuchi who passed away in October 2023. We remember a life filled
with joy, love, adventure, and shared moments. His legacy lives on
through his surviving family, including a devoted son and his wife,
two beloved daughters, a dedicated son-in-law, ex-wife, a precious
grandchild, his brother and sister.

Originally from Japan, Shigeru and his family embarked on a
life-changing journey to America in the early 1970s, seeking new
opportunities and a brighter future. This decision marked the
beginning of a remarkable story filled with wonder.

Shigeru had a deep passion for life and a wide array of interests.
From the joy of fishing, golfing, bowling, swimming, playing baseball
and being a judo master - he did it all. Although his eyesight started
to wane in his later years, he still managed to play pool
competitively (and win!) and tried to live life to the fullest.
Shigeru actively sought out happiness and enjoyment at every stage of
life. He was a man of humble means, but the universe occasionally lent
a hand as he sat next to NBC Sports at Shea stadium for a Mets game,
had an ice cream cone with Jackie Onassis for his birthday and was
able to play golf at Lightfoot, avoiding a three year
waiting list.

He created countless memories with his family at New York beaches like
Sunken Meadow, Jones Beach, Coney Island, and Rockaway, where the
family could play in the sand under the warmth of the sun and the
beautiful backdrop of the sea. Each location had its unique and
interesting features - Sunken Meadow had calmer waters and less
crowds; Jones Beach had larger waves and little sand crabs who
scurried to bury themselves when inevitably uncovered; Coney Island
had a great amusement park and boardwalk. Shigeru took his family to
Colonial Williamsburg, Great Adventure, the historic landmarks of
Washington, D.C., Circus World, Busch Gardens, Sea World and the
enchanting World of Disney. Shigeru made it full circle back to Japan
decades ago and recently met with relatives who came to visit America.
He raised three wonderful children who he was able to send to a
Japanese camp in the Catskills, Camp Furusato, for the summers to have
their own adventures. He most recently took a trip to visit a dear
friend in Las Vegas.

Otosan - Daddy
One of his greatest loves in life was dogs. Their companionship
brought him immense happiness, and he found solace in their presence.
One of our dogs, Rhorshach, had a habit of tipping over the laundry
hamper and chewing up its contents. One day, Rhorshach had chewed
through a white, shimmery, Victoria's Secret, inner-outerwear bra. He
chewed it right down the middle of the left cup.

"Bad dog! Bad dog!", I screamed, angrily shaking the shredded remains
of the bra in my fist.
My father, hearing this, calmly said, "I'll give you five bucks. Go
buy yourself a new bra."
I said, "Dad, that bra was thirty-eight dollars."
This was a lot of money for a bra in the '90's!
My dad then exclaimed, "Thirty-eight dollars?!  BAD DOG!! BAD DOG!!!!".

As I remember all of the experiences I had, I realize I am truly
blessed. He said he was able to live such an extraordinary life
because of his family. The adventures we shared, our conversations and
love that will forever remain. Otosan's (dad in Japanese) memory will
inspire me to embrace life with the same passion and enthusiasm that
he did. In honoring his legacy, be present, cherish the moment, enjoy
the good times and live life without regret.

Rest In Peace, We love you,
Sayonara, Otosan.