Ken M. Kawakami

Ken Masaru Kawakami passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026 at Ontario Oregon.

Ken was born on July 4, 1941 at Hood River Oregon. In March 1942 his family was relocated to a Relocation Center in Pinedale California. After several months of hardship and trying their best to survive in the camp Ken’s dad was able to secure work on a farm and they were able to leave the camp and move to be with family in Weiser Idaho. Later they were able to purchase their own farm on the Oregon Slope. Ken attended the Annex school and graduated from Weiser High School.

Ken joined the Idaho Air National guards. He became an airplane mechanic and a crew chief. He retired in 1991.

He started his own yard and garden business. He loved helping the elderly maintain their properties.

Ken married Arlee in 1982. They loved skiing, hiking, traveling and most anything outdoors. They tried to hike to as many Lookout Towers as possible.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife Arlee, his parents Isao and Yoshiko, his sister Amy and his brother Gene. He is survived by his sisters Naomi Ota, Micki Kawakami, Lynne Lords and Alyce Brown. His brothers Ben (Vicki) Kawakami, Joe (Kathy) Kawakami and many nieces and nephews.

Military honors will be held on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery located at 10100 N. Horseshoe Bend Road Boise, Idaho.  Condolences may be left for the family at www.bowmanfuneral.com