Class of 1943

It is with a heavy heart that I’m writing this last column for my dad, George Shimizu. In late January Dad was enjoying his Warrior’s game on TV and reached for his favorite orange soda—he fell and broke his hip. The orthopedist that performed his hip replacement said he was like a 60-year-old; the doctor was amazed at how well Dad did. While in the rehab home, he had a few setbacks. His 103-year-old body is too fragile, making it difficult to keep him comfortable.

Dad will stay at the rehab home for the remainder of his life, they love him there and call him “Papa.” They’re amazed how he remembers all their names and reads the paper and magazines every day. They take excellent care of Dad and love his sense of humor and hearing his stories.

Dad was so proud to attend Dartmouth—those were some of his fondest memories. Even with a hip replacement, he reminded me to send in his annual donation…I think he’s the longest contributor at 81 years! He enjoyed writing the class of ’43 notes and whenever he received the magazine it was the first piece of mail he read! I know he’s been writing about his experiences in World War II—he has an incredible memory and recalls dates, times, places, and people instantly.

Dad lived with my husband and me, totally independent until his fall. He needed just three meals a day—and, of course, dessert with lunch and dinner—and spent his days watching sports on TV, reading, and writing letters (on his IBM typewriter, which he preferred to his Mac)!

I want to thank Dartmouth College, as so many people have reached out to Dad (both alumni and students) thanking him for his articles and sharing how they enjoyed reading them—that put a huge smile on his face!

Editor’s Note: Carol shared the following news on May 4: “I have sad news: Dad passed away peacefully early this morning in his sleep.”

—Carol Shimizu, 2140 Sepulveda Ave., Milpitas, CA 95035; (408) 930-2488; marymariko@comcast.net