Obituary

Miles Takeo Kiyabu was born August 16, 1928 to his parents Kama Kiyabu and Hatsue (Kina) Kiyabu in Honolulu, Hawaii.

He grew up with his six siblings and many cousins, including his twin sister Lily and cousin William Higa, with whom he was very close.  He always admired and looked up to his big sister Jean Miyoko.  Out of high school, he worked to put his younger brothers through college before attending himself.  In college, he enjoyed studying math, astronomy, and chemistry.  

Miles relocated to California for employment and education opportunities.  It was while attending the University of Southern California that he accompanied a friend on a trip to Mexico over spring break in 1961. On that trip, he met Angela, who became his wife on January 3, 1962.

Miles is remembered for “being a very good brother who was kind and thoughtful, talented with many interests. He loved photography, dancing the jitterbug, boxing, different sports, and repairing things.”

His children remember him as a kind, generous, and attentive father; always ready to assist with homework, school projects, or even campouts in the front yard.  He enthusiastically supported any pursuit, be it music, photography, or Judo – all the while enjoying the process of teaching and learning.  He instilled in his family a strong sense of community and of family loyalty.  He modeled what it means to feel gratitude and contentment, appreciating even the smallest of kindnesses.

Miles was 94 years old when he passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 6, 2023 in Mission Viejo, Calfornia. He was preceded in death by his father, Kama, his mother, Hatsue, and his siblings Yoshiko, Nobuichi, Jean Miyoko, Mitsuo, and George.

He is survived by his wife, Angela; his four children, Alejandro, Leonardo, Cynthia, and Diana; his twin sister, Lily Takiguchi; his cousin, William Higa; many nieces and nephews; and his grandchildren, Matthew, Michelle, Matt, Anthony, Ryan, Makayla, Grace, and William.