Bishop Shugen Komagata's Obituary
Bishop Shugen Komagata Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bishop Shugen Komagata, the 7th Bishop of the Hawaii Soto Mission, who fulfilled his life on June 7, 2024, at the age of 80.
Born in Niigata, Japan, Shugen moved to Honolulu in 1956 to live with his grandfather, Zenkyo Komagata, the 2nd Bishop of the Hawaii Soto Mission. He graduated from McKinley High School and later earned his degree from the University of New Mexico. In 1970, he married the love of his life, Faye Watanabe. Together, they raised their two beloved sons, Daishu and Shuji.
Shugen devoted his life to his ministry, serving as the resident minister at the Kona Daifukuji Soto Mission from 1976 to 1981, and at the Wahiawa Ryusenji Soto Mission from 1981 to 2008. In 2008, he became the chief priest of the Soto Mission of Hawaii, leading the community as its Bishop until his passing. Shugen’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering compassion made a lasting impact on those he served, and he will be remembered as a friendly and caring minister who truly cherished his work.
Bishop Komagata is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Faye. He leaves behind his cherished sons, Daishu (and Irina) and Shuji (and Jaymie), as well four grandchildren, Remi, Reigen, Alyssa, and Marina.
Shuji was recently installed as the 8th Bishop of the Hawaii Soto Mission. He is also fourth generation Komagata to hold the position of bishop for the Mission.
A Wake Service will be held on Saturday, October 12, at 3:30 p.m. at the Soto Mission of Hawaii. The Funeral Service will take place the following day, Sunday, October 13, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Parking will be available at the Soto Mission of Hawaii, with overflow parking at Seeqs Charter School, the Hongwanji Mission School, and the Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin on Pali Highway.
In honoring Bishop Shugen Komagata's legacy, we celebrate a life of dedication, love, and service to others. He will be greatly missed but forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.
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