Herbert Nakachi's Obituary
Celebrating the life of Herbert Shingiyu Nakachi
Born on May 8th 1928 in Kona, Hawaii, the 7th of 11 children.
His parents were Mori Nakachi and Matsu Tamaki.
My father’s first job was as an auto mechanic at Matsue Auto Repair Shop. He was later drafted into the U.S. Marine Corps, entering the Korean War from December 1951 to December 1953. He attained the rank of Lance Corporal E3 & received a National Defense Service Medal.
Dad retired from Honolulu Ford Motor Company as an Auto Mechanic.
He was married to Clara Miyeko Onaga on August 6, 1955.
Dad was proud of his tour as a Marine. He would often proudly quote “Semper Fi” to the kids. Every year on the Marine Corps birthday Dad would play the Marine Corps Band Album and proudly march around the living room with us kids loyally following him singing The Marine Corps Hymn & marching to the rest of the album.
His work & hobby was fixing cars. Another beloved pastime was working in the garden and relaxing in his outdoor armchair smoking a cigar watching the cars stream past our backyard at the end of the day.
He was fascinated with Nature as well. Before daybreak one morning Dad excitedly got us up early so that we could watch one of the guppies we caught give birth in our tiny aquarium. His eyes gleamed with delight as he watched the miraculous event unfold. I think Dad had more fun than we did at those times.
Most prized in his life of course was Mom, his kids & extended family. Dad was always ready to help us all with any thing he could. He was a longstanding member of Club Motobu-Hawaii United Okinawan Association.
Dad lived his life as simply as possible. I’m reminded of a ninja priest walking the line between the physical & spiritual worlds. Things we’ve learned from him will indeed remain indefinitely.
What’s your fondest memory of Herbert ?
What’s a lesson you learned from Herbert ?
Share a story where Herbert 's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Herbert you’ll never forget.
How did Herbert make you smile?