Obituary: Akiyama, Marc Masao

AKIYAMA,
Marc Masao

Much loved husband, dad, papa, son, brother, favorite uncle, favorite son-in-law, and best friend peacefully left us on September 1, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Our world is left with a void that only Marc’s heart and spirit can fill.

Born August 11, 1949 to Roy and Hisako Akiyama, Marc was a lifelong resident of Spokane, graduating from Lewis and Clark High School in 1967.

On November 6, 1971 he married his “Honey Bunny” Sally, his wife of 41 years.

They had two beloved children, JJ and Jeff.

In the early 70’s, Marc went to work for McGinnis Paper Company, now WCP Solutions, where he continued to work for 38 years until his passing.

Marc was a gifted salesman, who earned numerous company awards and served as president of his industry’s Craftsmen Club.

His success can be attributed to his genuine appreciation for his clients and his loyalty to them and his company.

This loyalty, while strong, was incomparable to the loyalty Marc showed to his family and friends.

Anyone blessed enough to have Marc in their life, knew they had someone who would gladly pick up the tab, extend an invitation to dinner, fix something at their home, or promise to just be there if needed.

He was an incredibly kind and generous man who always had a hug, smile, bad joke, drink or handshake for everyone he knew.

Marc enjoyed life and made it hard for those around him not to do the same.

He enjoyed Friday nights at OD’s, family dinners, barbequing by his pool and WSU football games…”Go Cougs” But most of all he loved his family, and was loved deeply in return.

Marc was the man behind creating many wonderful memories for his family and friends.

While we would trade these memories for one more day with him, we are so grateful that he gave us so many to hold onto.

Marc is preceded in death by his father, Roy.

He is survived by his mother, Hisako; wife, Sally; sisters Karil (Paul) Streitz and Grace (Dorian) Chastain; daughter JJ (Tyler) Robbins; son Jeff; adoring grandchildren Jake and Molly; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Marc’s life will be held at 2pm, on September 14 at Heritage Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the charity of your choice.