Fusao “Fuzzy” Nagareda passed away peacefully on Friday, January 9, 2009 at the age of 81. Born on November 25, 1927, he was part of a close, loving family of five brothers and five sisters born to Yoshio and Shigeru Nagareda. He was preceded in death by his father and mother. Also preceding Fusao in death were his brother Hiromi Nagareda (Betty), sister Susan Shimizu (Ed), sister Bonnie Sakata and brother-in law Tom Okita. Fusao is survived by his sister Tazzie Okita, sister Connie Yamanaka (Ken), sister Judy Yee (Mel), brother Bill Nagareda (Cathy), brother Ken Nagareda (Melinda), brother Harry Nagareda (Linda), brother-in law Hiro Sakata and twelve nieces and nephews.
Fuzzy was born in Gilroy and educated in Gilroy public schools. Only the World War II Japanese Internment in Poston, Arizona, interrupted his education. He returned from Poston, and enrolled for his senior year at Gilroy High School. He graduated with his class in 1946.
Fuzzy was drafted into the U. S. Army during the Korean Conflict and served with the 22nd and 26th Infantry Regiments stationed in Germany.
After his Army service, Fuzzy farmed in Gilroy as a partner with his older brother Hiromi, forming Nagareda Brothers’ Farm on Pacheco Pass Highway. He worked in farming until his retirement.
Fuzzy enjoyed fishing, gardening, family, and friends in his retirement. Failing health required permanent health care in 1996. He no longer could fish and garden, but family and friends were still a priority.
Fuzzy’s life has touched many people, and he will truly be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Family and friends are invited to attend funeral services on Friday, January 16 at 11:00 A.M. at Habing Family Funeral Home, 129 4th St. Gilroy with interment to follow.
