Kenji David Shimono

Kenji David Shimono passed away peacefully in his home on July 12, 2025. His wife Peggy was able to see him leave this earth and enter the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

David was born in Minidoka Internment Camp in southern Idaho in 1944. He was one year old when World War II ended and imprisoned Japanese Americans were allowed to leave the camp. The family settled in Bellevue, WA and then Seattle.

David graduated from Garfield High School and, while attending the University of Washington, enlisted in the U.S. Navy instead of being drafted. During the Vietnam War he was stationed aboard USS Taylor (DD 468), a Fletcher-class destroyer that provided gunfire support for ground forces. Upon discharge he continued his studies at the University of Washington while also serving in the U.S. Naval Reserve. He graduated with a degree in electrical engineering, landed a job at The Boeing Company as an electronic engineer, and retired after 37 years.

He met Peggy at Imperial Lanes Bowling Alley in 1970. They married in 1975 and three months later moved to London, England, where David joined a management team assisting the British in simulating the uprighting of an oil rig in the North Sea – a first for Boeing. What an awesome honeymoon for David and Peggy, who celebrated 50 years of marriage this year in April.

David was a gentle, patient, and kind soul who loved to interact with people, whether through travel, sports, or game days and nights. He was always ready with quick one-liners and often seemed to “win” at games! His sense of humor got them through some very tough times.

David is survived by his wife, Peggy; brothers, Terry (Judy) and Ron Shimono; sisters-in-law, Carol, Diane and Elaine Shimono and Carol Fujimoto (Mark Richards); brothers-in-law, George (Nancy) and Kenny Fujimoto; 19 nieces and nephews, 2 grandchildren, and a host of cousins who all shared in his joyful spirit. He was predeceased by his parents, Kiyoshi and Fujie Shimono, sister MaryAnn, and brothers Yuji, Yosh and Don.

Special thanks to all the family and friends who prayed for him during this long journey; those who visited and encouraged his tender loving smile during game nights and bedridden days; his PT/OT providers who helped him enjoy a few extra years of normal activity; and nurse Linda, chaplain Lea, and caregiver Eric, who took excellent care of him during his hospice days. Although David's physical presence no longer graces our lives, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. The joy of the Lord was his strength! May that joy and his memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth his legacy of love and compassion in all we do.

A private military honors graveside service will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of David to Disabled American Veterans, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Faith Bible Church.