Scott Kosuke Yamazaki

Obituary of Scott Kosuke Yamazaki (1938–2025) Life & Legacy Scott Yamazaki, proud father of three children, age 86, of Canton, Michigan, died peacefully at Waltonwood at Cherry Hill, surrounded by family, on August 15, 2025. Born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1938 to Tosuke and Lorraine Yamasaki, who were working for the U.S. Embassy prior to the war, Scott spent his early years moving with his parents and sister, Ellen, before the family settled in Washington, D.C.—the place he called “home.” A 1956 graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, he went on to Georgetown University, graduating third in his class with a degree in biology while also studying theology. One of his proudest accomplishments was achieving the rank of Eagle Scout which he received in late 1956. He later pursued graduate studies at Wayne State University before beginning a 34-year career with Ford Motor Co. A devoted Christian, Scott’s faith guided him throughout his life. After moving to Detroit, he joined St. Martha’s Episcopal Church, where he sang in the choir and met the love of his life, Barbara Ann Goodison. They married on September 5, 1964, and shared more than 60 years together, united by their love of music, singing in several church choirs and chorale groups, and for 39 years with the Beckridge Chorale (formerly Plymouth Community Chorus). Together they built a life of faith, family, friends, and music, raising their three children—Mark, Gordon, and Jennifer—in Dearborn and later Canton, who also share their love of music. Scott’s adventurous spirit and love of learning never faded. Athletic throughout his life, he earned black belts in Judo and in Isshin-Ryū Karate. Scott began running marathons when he turned 40 and by his early 50’s had completed 26 - one for each mile. A history buff as well, he fulfilled a long-time dream of hang gliding on the dunes of Kitty Hawk, where the Wright Brother’s tested their first flights. In retirement, he became a Master Gardener through Michigan State University, taught himself violin, took cooking classes, and earned a Medical Assistant Certificate from Schoolcraft College. He and Barbara also shared a love of cruising, traveling throughout the Caribbean and Alaska, and delighted in exploring new places and meeting new people together. He was a longtime leader in the Detroit Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League, serving as President and helping advance the movement that led to the Civil Liberties Act of 1988, which secured redress for Japanese Americans unjustly incarcerated during World War II. Scott also gave generously of his time to his church and community. He was known for his kindness, resilience, and devotion to family and friends. His loved ones cherish memories of summers at Brevort Lake in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—fishing, swimming, and campfires—as well as family vacations at the Outer Banks, where days were filled with beaches, fishing, and laughter. He especially loved fishing and found lasting friendship as a longtime member of the 4 Seasons Fishing Club, which also connected him with relatives who shared his passion. Family Scott is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; sister, Ellen Edwards; children Mark (Tracy), Gordon (Katy Haralampides), and Jennifer (Christopher Blair); grandson, Lukas; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tosuke and Lorraine Yamasaki. Service & Acknowledgements A visitation will be held on Sunday, August 24, at 3:00 p.m. at Rosedale Gardens Presbyterian Church, 9601 Hubbard St., Livonia, followed by a memorial service at 4:00 p.m. and gathering at 5:00 p.m. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers (and friends) at Waltonwood at Cherry Hill and Angela Hospice for their compassionate care, and to Rosedale Gardens Presbyterian Church, Scott’s final church home, for their support and for hosting his service. Memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimer's Association, Greater Michigan Chapter, 25200 Telegraph Road, Suite 100, Southfield, Michigan 48033-7443 or via the link; https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate. To share a memory, please use the share a memory tab on this webpage.

Scott Kosuke Yamazaki

November 28, 1938 - August 15, 2025