Akira Nagamine

Akira Nagamine of Watsonville passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 10, 2023.

Akira was born on September 7, 1925 in Ibusuki, Japan. In 1956, Akira Nagamine immigrated to the United States with just $24.32 in his pocket and a 30-month contract to work in the strawberry fields in Watsonville, CA. In 1967, Akira and his wife Hideko founded A. Nagamine Nursery in Watsonville. Together they ran a successful wholesale florist business for over 20 years. They were later joined in the family business by their two sons Roy and Glenn. At the age of 88, Akira along with daughter Janet re-branded the business specializing in organic Japanese vegetables. Their specialty produce became popular in the Bay Area and continues to be revered by chefs at several Michelin star restaurants. Upon his passing, Akira was the proud owner and co-founder of Hikari Farms.

Akira was preceded in death by his parents, Tosuke and Otomatsu Nagamine and his son, Roy Nagamine.

Akira is survived by his wife of 67 years, Hideko, daughter Nancy (Gary) Nagaye, son Glenn (Judy) Nagamine, and daughter Janet Nagamine (Stuart Sakuma).

He is survived by his 10 grandchildren Greg (Chrissy) Nagaye, Geoff (Jocelyn) Nagaye, Matt Nagaye; Kari, Scott, and Laura Nagamine; Derek, John, and Sarah Nagamine; and Jamie Sakuma. He has five great grandchildren.

Akira was the oldest of seven children. He is survived by brothers Manabu, Osamu, Hidenori, Fujiyoshi and Mutsuo Nagamine and sister Masako Yutsudo.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday September 30, 2023, 1:00 pm at Watsonville Buddhist Temple.