Remembering Kenneth Smith

Today we lost our uncle, Kenneth Smith, at the amazing age of 90. He had been living in Indianapolis and is remembered as a great uncle to me. In my younger years he was distant to us because of his residence in the US but I recall well our visits to see him and his family. As the eldest of the family, he seemed to personify his mother in many ways. And that is a good thing.

His career with RCA took him to Japan on numerous occasions to work with Victor Japan on the development of color TV cameras during the 1970's. I can only imagine now what an experience that must have been for him. He always talked about it in such positive terms, I can't help but think now he was an influence for me to choose Japan as my home. Once I was here in Tokyo, he took an active interest in my life and work here. That is what great uncles do.

We kept in touch by email and he always remembered our anniversary. I had the pleasure to visit him in 2003 during a business trip to Chicago. I made a day trip down to Indianapolis for lunch but didn't realize there is a one hour time difference so I arrived one hour late. Nevertheless, I got a warm welcome. I should have visited more often as I am in and out of Chicago frequently but that's business travel for you. I did talk to him by phone in 2010 and it was almost as good as being with him.

Farewell Ken. You led an amazing life, raised three wonderful daughters and gave me everything I could ask for from an uncle. Somewhere here in Japan there are many technicians and engineers who are unaware of our loss but have benefited immensely from your contributions. Our thoughts are with Barbara and the rest of the family tonight.