Death Announcement: Albert Toshiro Kogura
Albert Toshiro Kogura, a beloved figure in San Jose, California, passed away on May 29, 2025. Born on November 11, 1941, Kogura spent his formative years in the city, attending San Jose High School and graduating in 1959. After high school, he enlisted in the National Guard and later graduated from San Jose State University in 1966.
Kogura's life took an international turn in 1971 when he accepted a foreign assignment to Japan for 2 1/2 years. Upon his return, he co-founded Nikaku Japanese Arts with his brother, Bill, in 1984. The business, dedicated to Japanese cultural arts, has since made a significant impact in the community.
Despite health issues, Kogura found joy in attending his grandsons' events. He also cherished memorable trips to Hawaii, Japan, and South Korea. Kogura was a sports enthusiast, rooting for the Warriors, 49ers, Sharks, and Giants. In his spare time, he coached youth basketball teams upon his return from Japan.
Kogura is survived by his wife Janice, son Tyler, daughter Alicia, and grandsons Austin and Alexander. He spent part of his childhood in an internment camp at Gila, Arizona during World War II. Kogura worked for IBM as a financial analyst for 24 years.
The family services for Albert Toshiro Kogura have already been held. Those who wish to pay their respects can send flowers, plant a tree, or send a meal as a tribute. For those seeking more detailed information about Kogura's biography or career, especially his roles in sports coaching or Nikaku Japanese Arts, it may be best to check dedicated cultural or Japanese arts organizations, his official profiles, or reach out to Nikaku Japanese Arts directly.
Albert Toshiro Kogura's fondness for sports was evident as he rooted for the Warriors, 49ers, Sharks, and Giants, while in his spare time, he also coached youth basketball teams upon his return from Japan. His lifestyle, enriched by international travels and a successful career, was marked by his dedication to Japanese cultural arts through Nikaku Japanese Arts, a business he co-founded with his brother, Bill.
