Daniel T. Sakai's Obituary
Daniel Takashi SakaiApril 6, 1973 ' March 21, 2009 What words do we have to say how much we love you? You were the world's best father to Jojiye, fantastic husband to Jenni, dedicated son to Tom and Mikki, one-of-a-kind brother to Toshi and Tommy, a caring grandson to every single one of your grandparents, and a cool cousin and nephew. What a full life you lived. Raised in Big Bear, there you acquired your love for everything outdoors. After graduation from Big Bear High School, you found a second home in the Bay Area. Majoring in Forestry at Cal, what great times you had making lifetime friends. The stars aligned when you attended the OPD Recruit Academy. There you found not only your soul mate and future wife, but also your home away from home at the Oakland Police Department. There you excelled and became a leader and teacher extraordinaire. Patrol officer, canine handler, patrol rifle and academy firearms instructor, and SWAT team member, you quickly rose to the rank of Sergeant of Police and SWAT team leader... and you loved it all. But the best day of your life was March 31, 2005, when your Jo-Chan was born. In a life so full of family, friends, and co-workers, you always made time for the ones closest to your heart, even if it meant taking a quick nap after a long, long shift ' somehow you always found the energy and brought your big and bright smile along with you. Viewings are at Chapel of the Chimes, 32992 Mission Blvd., Hayward, CA, on the following dates: Wednesday, March 25 from 5:30-8:30 and Thursday, March 26 from 5:30-8:30. Funeral services are on Friday, March 27 at 11:00 am at the Oracle Arena, 6600 Coliseum Way, Oakland. A Trust Fund has been established. Checks may be directed to the 'Sakai Family Trust,' C/O OPOA, Attn: Rennee Hassna, 555 5th Street, Oakland, CA 94607. Wire transfers may be directed to Merrill Lynch Accounts, 'Sakai Family Trust,' a/c 204-04064.
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