“A gentle heart, a curious mind, forever watching for the next sunrise.”

George Michael Nakamura

March 12, 1945 - July 18, 2026 (81 years old)

Born on March 12, 1945 in Sacramento, California

Passed away on July 18, 2026 in San Diego, California

About

George Michael Nakamura was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose quiet curiosity and steady kindness shaped everyone around him. A retired electrical engineer, George spent his 34-year career at Sacramento Municipal Utility District before retiring in 2010. In retirement he restored vintage radios in his garage workshop and led early-morning birdwatching walks along the American River Parkway. He and his wife Diane raised two children in the same Sacramento home for over four decades, filling it with laughter, Saturday pancake breakfasts, and shelves of field guides. His grandchildren adored his storytelling voice, especially when he read aloud from their favorite picture books. He will be remembered for his patience, his handmade birdhouses, and the way he made every person feel like the most interesting person in the room.

Quick Facts

Born in

Sacramento, California

Lived in

Sacramento, California

Occupation

Retired Electrical Engineer

Relationship status

Married

Faith

Buddhist

Favorite Quote

The best things in life aren't loud - they just take patience to tune in.
— George Nakamura

Known For

PatientCuriousHandyDevotedGentle

Favorites

Song

Fly Me to the Moon

Movie

It's a Wonderful Life

Food

Homemade ramen

Place

American River Parkway

Sports Team

Sacramento Kings

Hobby

Restoring vintage radios

Color

Forest Green

Book

The Sibley Guide to Birds

Important Dates

Birth Date

March 12, 1945

Wedding Anniversary

June 14, 1970

Retirement from SMUD

May 28, 2010

Date of Passing

July 18, 2026