It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of David Kogawa, a beloved father, grandfather, husband, brother, uncle, and friend.

Born in Hardieville, Alberta, he was the sixth of 10 children born to Kyosei (1889-1987) and Miyo (1890-1987) Kohashigawa. David married Joy Nakayama in 1957 and they had two children, Gordon and Deidre. He built his career with the federal government beginning at the Moose Jaw Hospital and then in Saskatoon. Eventually he relocated to Ottawa, where he was the education head at the department of Indian Affairs. He was instrumental in closing down the residential schools nationwide as he believed that children should not be separated from their parents wherever possible.

Joy and David divorced in 1968 but continued a lifelong friendship as co-parents to their children. A quiet and unassuming person, David was devoted to his family and a few close friends, enjoying an active retirement in White Rock and later Guildford in Surrey, BC. Athletic and fit, David excelled in the sport of boxing as a young man and retained a lifelong enthusiasm for sports and athletics. He enjoyed many years golfing and curling and especially relished spending time with his grandchildren.

David leaves behind his two children, Gordon (Kat) and Deidre (Tim), grandchildren Matthew, Sen, Yumi, and David, his ex-wife, Joy, brothers Gordon and George, as well as many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by sisters Amy, Yoshiko, Susie, and Lily, as well as brothers Sakae, Shigeru, and Eddy.

A celebration of life was held in Lethbridge, Alberta on August 27, 2023. A genuinely principled and compassionate family man, he is greatly missed.