James H. Takano

James H. Takano, DDS, MSD

Born on July 24, 1926, in Bellevue, WA, Jim was the third son of Komaji and Shigeo Takano; brother to George, William, Betty, Amy, and Richard.

His early years were spent working the family farm in Bellevue until they were forced to relocate to Tule Lake and Heart Mountain internment facilities during WWII.

After those years, Jim continued his education at the University of Washington and in 1955 he graduated with a Degree in Dentistry, with the distinction of graduating at the top of his class. Upon graduation from dental school, Jim enlisted in the US Army as a dentist, and was stationed at Fort Carson, CO. While stationed there, he discovered his love for skiing and golf, becoming a single-digit handicapper some years later.

Jim went on to receive his Masters of Science in Dentistry (MSD) in 1961. He joined his brother William practicing orthodontia in the Medical Dental Building in Seattle for many years, and together they served many families in the community. When William passed, Jim took over his patients as well, and then retired in 1996.

In 1980 Jim married Tsukiyo Ondo (Tanino), who preceded him in death in 2011.

An avid golfer, "Jungle" (as many called him), was a member of the Meridian Valley Golf Club, Puget Sound, and Bayview Golf Clubs. He enjoyed golf well into his nineties with his girlfriend Jean Deguchi and many friends.

James H. Takano is survived by his nephews Steve and David Fujiki, Danny (Marcella) Takano and son Max, and Michael Takano and son William. Also mourning Jim are Tsukiyo's children, Ellen Kennewick (Richard), Haru Pollock (Larry), and Tim Ondo (Megumi), as well as many grandchildren and friends.

There will be a private family service at Sunset Hills Memorial Park in July.

Remembrances may be sent to the University of Washington Department of Orthodontics, University of Washington School of Dentistry, or the Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple in Seattle.

Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Funeral Home - Lake View ~ Seattle, Washington