KOYATA, Ted

KOYATA
It is with great sadness that the family of Ted Koyata announce the passing of our Father on July 16, 2023 in Taber, Alberta. Dad reached the incredible age of 102 years on June 6th, 2023.
Our Dad, Takeshi (Ted) Koyata was born in Raymond Alberta, June 6, 1921 and was the eldest son of Takejiro and Isa Koyata, who were early Japanese Canadian pioneers in Southern Alberta.
Dad is survived by 5 children Leslie (Marilyn); Alan (Carla); Gloria (Richard) Papworth; Wayne; Hugh (Ruth). His lasting legacy includes: 15 Grandchildren and 16 great Grandchildren.
He is also survived by one brother Isamu (Sam) of Toronto, 3 Sisters in law (Jane, Setchan, and Katie) and numerous nieces and nephews and their families.
Dad was predeceased by his beloved wife of 67 years, Sueko, in September of 2014.
He was also predeceased by his parents, 7 siblings, and 19 in-laws.
Teds childhood was spent growing up on the farm south of Raymond on the “ridge “or Yama as it was known.
He loved the land and all that it represented.
Dad and Mom were married Jan 20 1947 and together they ran the family farm until 1963. A career change led him to the next step in life which was to become a mechanic and owner of his own shop, Teds Esso Service in Picture Butte. Retirement brought many travels for them, and they enjoyed trips to Hawaii,Paris, US, Japan and all across Canada.
For all who knew Ted, he was a man of great integrity who worked hard at everything he pursued. Whether he was farming, working in his own shop, volunteering on the Pic Butte fire dept, or helping out his many friends and family, no job was too big or too small.
Dad was a long serving member of the Buddhist church community in Raymond and Lethbridge serving in many roles. He was a member of the Raymond and Picture Butte Lions clubs for many years.
He was an avid golfer, bowler and curler well into his later years, and made many lasting friendships through sports and other events. His Love of gardening and ability to produce a bounty of vegetables has been passed down to many of his kids and grandkids.
We will remember our Dad as a caring father who was devoted to his family, a great brother, brother in law, uncle, great uncle, and an amazing Grandpa and great Grandpa.
Dad had a great sense of humour and was always smiling. His laugh will stay with all of us forever.
A service will be held on August 21, 2023 at the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta in Lethbridge. Meet the Family at 10:00AM, service at 11:00AM.
Flowers and Koden are gratefully declined. Anyone wishing to honour Dads life can do so by donating to the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta or a charity of one’s choice.
To send a condolence, please visit www.salmonandsons.ca