Malon Hitoshi Ugaki's Obituary
Malon Hitoshi Ugaki was born in Rexburg, Idaho on May 18, 1953 to his mother, Jane Miyuki Okamoto, and his father, Kenji Ugaki. He is the eldest son of five children and loved being an older brother to Raymond Kenmi, Yvonne Hanae, Terri Sumiye and Janet Rei. Malon lived in many places but ultimately settled in San Leandro, California, where he resided for over 40 years.
Malon attended Berkeley High School in the 1970s. Following his enlistment into the US Navy, he continued his education at Southern Illinois University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Education.
Being a Senior Chief Petty Officer in the US Navy was one of Malon’s greatest honors; serving as a Machinist’s Mate for 21 years. Throughout his time at sea, he mentored his shipmates, worked diligently, and adventured through many corners of the world. After retiring, he went on to become a substitute teacher for San Lorenzo Unified School District.
Malon took on many hobbies throughout his life. He enjoyed cooking, especially creating new recipes and honing his skills on a single dish. He was a DM when he played Dungeons & Dragons, always curating his campaigns to be difficult and filled with riddles. He enjoyed playing farming and cozy games like Animal Crossing and Harvest Moon. In 2023, Malon learned how to garden after the passing of his mother, and he loved spending time working on growing different vegetables and fruits. Zucchini bread, pico de gallo, and pickles were his favorite dishes to make from the produce in his garden.
Malon was 72 years old when he passed at Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley on January 7, 2026. He was surrounded by the loving presence of his family and left peacefully in his sleep. Malon is survived by his wife, Cristina Ugaki, his daughter, Victoria Miyuki Ugaki, son-in-law, Christopher Doan, and his younger siblings.
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