Noel Okamoto

Noel Yuzuru Okamoto

December 4, 1922 ~ April 27, 2017

NORTH OGDEN – Noel Yuzuru Okamoto, age 94, passed away on April 27, 2017 at home surrounded by his family.

Noel was born on December 4, 1922 in Waimea, Hawaii to Kakichi and Ai Okamoto.  He graduated from Waimea High School.

Noel served in the US Army during WWII, serving in France and Italy.  He was a proud member of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team.  In Italy, he was wounded, and received a Purple Heart. He was later awarded a Congressional Gold Medal and was Knighted into the French Legion of Honor for his service with the 442nd.

After his military service, Noel attended what is now the University of Southern Mississippi.  He was the first person of Japanese descent to ever graduate from that university.

On June 26, 1955, Noel married Susie Shizue Oka.  He taught for many years at the Intermountain Indian School in Brigham City.  After retirement, they moved to North Ogden.

Noel’s favorite times were spent fishing, hunting, traveling, gardening, and skiing.

Noel is survived by his daughter, Vicki (Hugh) Youngblood-Boise, ID; granddaughter, Michelle Youngblood (Nate Mayhew)-Harrisville, UT; grandson Jon (Jette) Youngblood-Providence, UT; four great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Susie; his parents, Kakichi and Ai; and his sisters, Akiko and Rachel. He was also preceded in death by many beloved brothers and sisters in law.

A special thanks to ComfortWorx Hospice and his “Buddy”, Porter, who was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand.

Friends and family may visit on Friday, May 12, 2017 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd.  Graveside services will be held on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Ogden City Cemetery.  Come bid Noel one final “Aloha”.  Please feel free, if you'd like, to wear your favorite tropical or Hawaiian print.