David Kenshin Kikuchi

David Kenshin Kikuchi, 92, a longtime resident of Pasadena, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2024.

Born on August 8, 1931, to Rev. Kenji and Yoshi Kikuchi, David was the fourth of five siblings, or ‘PKs’ (Preacher’s Kids), as he used to call himself.

The family was interned in Poston, Arizona, during the war and then relocated to San Diego. A San Diego High School star wrestler, David held multiple titles and earned the moniker ‘King of the Local 128-pounders’. David ‘accidentally’ enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Korean War. He then continued wrestling at Cal, earning his degree in Architecture. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, our dad dedicated himself to his profession for almost 50 years.

David was preceded in death by his wife, Rachel; siblings, Thomas, Elizabeth, and Anna; and his second wife, Maki.

He is survived by his children, Michele (Tim), Paul (Maida), and Annie (Don), and grandchildren, Bryan (Olave), Scotty, Lauren, Hana, Emma, Katie, and Rachel. He is also survived by his eldest sister, Mariam.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, nurses, and staff of MonteCedro Courtyards Memory Care, who cared for David in his later years. It was well-known that David was an excellent singer, a talented artist and puzzle- solver, a wonderful helper and friend, a food critic, and, on occasion, an escape artist. With patience and compassion, they provided David with a rich quality of life, which brought immense comfort to his family.

David, always with a smile and sense of humor, inspired genuine humility, loyalty, and kindness to all.

Dad, we will miss you.

A memorial service will be held in the future.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MonteCedro Courtyards or the First Presbyterian Church of Altadena in his memory.