Kenichiro Takahashi

Ken was born on August 8, 1942, in Arcadia, California, to the late Kengo and Fumiko Takahashi, during one of the most challenging times in American history. Born in a horse stable at the Santa Anita Racetrack during World War II, Ken and his family were soon relocated to the Heart Mountain Internment Camp in Wyoming. Ken was the eldest of three brothers and experienced firsthand the hardships of that era.

Following the war, the Takahashi family found temporary refuge at the Konkoyo Shinto Temple in Los Angeles before eventually settling in Montebello, where they first rented and later purchased a home. Ken’s father began a nursery business in their backyard, which eventually expanded to a larger location in Pico Rivera and finally to La Habra in 1955, known as Pagoda Nursery. Despite the adversities of his early life, Ken’s resilience was a defining feature that shaped the successful life he would build.

Ken attended Montebello High School from 1957 to 1960, where he was a standout athlete, lettering in football and baseball. In his senior year voted ASB Vice President. He then received a baseball scholarship and attended San Jose State University from 1961 to 1964, where he played for the university all four years and married Kiyomi Ikeda in 1963. After graduation, Ken and Kiyomi moved to La Mirada. Ken continued to play baseball with the semi-pro Tokyo Giants in Los Angeles while working as a manager at his family’s Pagoda Nursery. The couple eventually settled in La Habra Heights. Although they tragically lost one child at an early age, Ken and Kiyomi were blessed with three beautiful children.

In the 1970s, Ken’s enterprising spirit flourished. He founded several businesses, including a Yamaha Motorcycle shop, Travel agency, Spa and surf and skateboard business. These ventures grew alongside Pagoda Nursery, a family business that remained central to his life. After years of success, Ken decided to sell his businesses in 1984 to explore new interests.

Ken's personal life was marked by both milestones and changes. Although his marriage to Kiyomi did not remain permanent they both remained close friends. Ken married Hope Campbell in 1980. Together, they welcomed two beautiful daughters and blended their families. Though Ken and Hope’s marriage did not remain permanent, they remained connected through their shared children. In later years, Ken returned to La Habra and embraced a more peaceful lifestyle. During this time, he developed a close bond with Linda Smith, his longtime companion, and they remained close friends for the rest of his life.

Ken cherished his family and friends, finding joy in spending time with loved ones, watching Lakers and Dodgers games, enjoying movies, and listening to music. Known for his warm heart, charismatic personality and welcoming nature, Ken was a friend to all who knew him.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Kengo and Fumiko Takahashi and his son Kyle Takahashi. He is survived by his two brothers, Hiroshi Takahashi and Saboru Takahashi, and his five children: Kenneth Takahashi (Kimberly), Kristen Del Cont (Tony), Kurtis Takahashi (Stacy), Elizabeth Lozano (Jason), and Stephanie Jensen (Levi). He also leaves behind a legacy of love with his grandchildren: Karah Del Cont, Tyler Del Cont, Abigail Takahashi, Amelia Takahashi, Adam Takahashi, Kaya Takahashi, Keaton Takahashi, Kolton Takahashi, Joshua Lozano, Joy Lozano, Noah Lozano, Garrison Jensen, Olive Jensen, Micah Jensen, and Benji Jensen, as well as his great-granddaughter Aliyah Kiyomi-Lee Cirt.

Ken will be remembered for his kindness, strength, and the love he gave his family and community.

A funeral service for Kenichiro will be held Tuesday, October 8, 2024 from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Freedom Christian Center, 6335 Greenleaf Avenue, Whittier 90601.