Ray Kusumoto

Ray Kusumoto passed away on Monday June 16, 2014 at the age of 83. He was a lifelong resident of Watsonville.

During World War II, Ray and his family were relocated to the internment camp at Poston. After the war Ray returned to Watsonville and attended high school where he was widely regarded as a great athlete. He was a standout on the CCAL champion varsity basketball team and a member of the All-CCAL team. After graduating high school he volunteered for the Air Force and served in the Korean War. Following the war, Ray returned to Watsonville and would later marry Shigeko Enjoji who passed away in 1991.

Ray had a strong work ethic and sense of loyalty. He had two employers in the last 55 years. He worked at Well Pict Berries for the last 38 of those, stopping only after serious illness in 2013.

He is survived by his son, Ray Seiji Kusumoto (46) and his grandson, Ayden (8). He was preceded by his wife, Shigeko; father, Masaharu Kusumoto and mother, Tamaye Hamagiwa.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2014 at 1:00 PM at Ave Maria Memorial Chapel, 609 Main Street, Watsonville CA.

Donations can be given to Watsonville High School Foundation PO Office Box 832, Watsonville, CA 95077.