Steven Suyeshi Okamura

Steven "Steve" Suyeshi Okamura was born on March 26, 1959, at St. Francis Memorial in San Francisco, California. He later moved to Watsonville, where he attended EA Hall Middle School from 1972 to 1974 and graduated from Watsonville High School in 1978. During his high school years, Steve developed a passion for wrestling, a sport that would define much of his life.

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After high school, Steve attended Cabrillo College, where he continued to wrestle from 1978 to 1981. He then moved to Arizona to attend vocational school and earned his certification as an auto mechanic. From 1985 onwards, Steve dedicated himself to his trade, becoming known for his skill and dedication in the auto mechanics field and energy management.?

In the mid-1990s, Steve returned to Watsonville High School to join the coaching staff under Willie Yahiro and simultaneously began working for Pajaro Valley Unified School District (PVUSD). As an assistant coach, Steve's enthusiasm for wrestling, particularly in the freestyle and Greco-Roman styles, was evident. Over the next 25 years, he played a crucial role in shaping many champions in both CIF and freestyle wrestling. His contributions were particularly impactful in women's wrestling, where he coached numerous female medalists.?

In 2010, Steve spearheaded the First Annual Apple Cider Wrestling Classic, a tournament that continues to flourish and bring the community together. His legacy in the wrestling world is marked by his dedication to the sport and the countless lives he influenced.?

Steve was more than a devoted coach and wrestler. He was an honest, hardworking man with a generous spirit, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. Known affectionately as "Okie," he was a man of adventure who never shied away from a challenge. Whether it was cycling, surfing, fishing, or hiking, Steve embraced every opportunity for excitement. He was also a food enthusiast, eager to sample any cuisine.?

Steve was incredibly devoted to his partner and fiancée, Josephine (Josie) De la Fuente, who made him glisten with joy. Together for 14 years, their relationship was a source of immense happiness and fulfillment for Steve. He was a father figure to Josie's sons, Ricky and Matt, and played a significant role in helping shape them as men.?

He is survived by his siblings: Timothy Hirashima and his wife Linda, Richard Hirashima, Cynthia Okamura, and James Okamura. Additionally, he is fondly remembered and loved by Becky Clark, his "wrestling daughter." Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Tosh Okamura and Yuri Lily Isushita.?

Steve's infectious smile and kind heart touched everyone he met. His warmth and generosity will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives he enriched. Steve's adventurous spirit, unwavering kindness, and dedication to helping others leave an enduring legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him.

A celebration of Life will be held at Mehl's Colonial Chapel Monday, June 3, 2024 at 3:00pm. A reception to follow.

Mehl's Colonial Chapel was entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Published in The Pajaronian · May 28, 2024