Dr. Michael Masuru Okihiro's Obituary
Dr. Michael Masuru Okihiro, 98, of Heʻeia passed away on October 21, 2025. Dr. Okihiro was a pioneering neurologist, dedicated educator, and beloved community member.
He was the oldest of his siblings (George, Helen Sakamoto, Grace Wilson, and Elaine Fujisaka) and loving husband to Evelyn. He was also the proud father of 5 children - Dean (Susan), Mark (Barbara), Michele (Todd Johnson), Jill, and May (Brian Quinn), grandparent of 6 (Alex, Allison, Mele, Camryn, Mari, and Michael), and great-grandparent of 2 (Gavin and Evan). Mike attended Ben Parker school then Mid-Pacific Institute, Class of 1943. He entered the University of Hawai’i at 16 then, shortly after his 18th birthday, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. After his discharge, Mike completed his undergraduate degree at UH, then attended medical school at the University of Michigan where he met his life partner Evelyn, who he remarked was “the best decision he ever made.” He went on to complete his neurology residency at the Mayo Clinic.
In 1961, Mike and family returned to Hawai’i where he broke barriers by becoming both the first staff neurologist and the first Asian American physician at Straub Clinic. He introduced groundbreaking techniques at Straub and even identified a rare disorder, now known as Okihiro Syndrome, which cemented his legacy in both research and clinical practice. Mike was known for his lifelong love of baseball and softball, playing and managing in local leagues well into his later years. He also loved golf. Mike was a prolific writer and historian, contributing to medical journals and chronicling the stories of Hawai‘i’s Japanese American communities. His published works include AJA Baseball in Hawai‘i and A‘ala: The Story of a Japanese Community in Hawai‘i.
Mike will be remembered for his humility, dedication to others, and unwavering love for his family. He often remarked that he felt blessed by the opportunities life had given him through family, friendships, and meaningful work. In a Hawai’i Herald interview, he reflected on his life, sharing: “I’ve been a lucky guy. I had good parents and a perfect wife. I’ve had a good life, good family, and good friends.” His words capture a life lived with gratitude and without regret. He leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him, and he will be greatly missed.
A celebration of life for both Mike and Evelyn Okihiro will be held on January 18, 2026 at 3:00 pm at Kokokahi YWCA Atherton Hall.
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