Stewart Alan Imagawa

Stewart Alan Imagawa passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, at the age of 69, surrounded by his loving family. Although our hearts are broken by his passing, we are incredibly grateful for the years we shared with a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend whose quiet strength, kindness, humility, and selflessness touched the lives of so many.

Stewart was born on September 5, 1956, at Edwards Air Force Base to Thomas Takeshi Imagawa and Alice Reiko (Iwamoto) Imagawa. He was raised in both Los Angeles and Orange County as the eldest of three children and naturally looked out for those around him—a quality that would remain with him throughout his life. He shared a close and lasting bond with his sisters, Donna Minamide, her husband Joel, and their daughter Aly, and Linda Ogata, her husband Jimmy, and their daughters Liana and Rachael. Family was always at the center of Stewart's life, and that love and devotion became the foundation for everything that followed.

After graduating from Los Alamitos High School in 1974, Stewart earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of California, Irvine in 1978. He went on to build a successful career as a computer engineer, working for Burroughs, Unisys, FileNet, and IBM before retiring in 2020. He built lasting friendships wherever he worked and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others. For many years he volunteered as a mentor in an after-school science and engineering program, inspiring young students and encouraging their curiosity. After retirement, he continued investing in others as a substitute teacher for the Saddleback Valley Unified School District through the beginning of the 2025 school year and as a volunteer tutor.

In the summer of 1982, while playing beach volleyball in Corona del Mar, Stewart met the love of his life, France. They were married on October 5, 1990, at St. Mary's by the Sea Catholic Church and began their life together with a honeymoon in Hawaii. Together they built a home centered on love, faith, and family and welcomed their daughter, Kathleen. Of all the roles Stewart held throughout his life, the one he treasured most was being Kathleen's dad.

Stewart's Catholic faith was the foundation of his life and the guiding force behind the way he cared for others. As a devoted parishioner of Santiago de Compostela Catholic Church, he quietly served wherever he was needed. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and generously gave his time as a Eucharistic Minister, usher, Camino pilgrimage volunteer, recycling volunteer, and SDC counter. Stewart never sought recognition for his service; he simply believed in showing up, lending a hand, and making a difference in the lives of those around him.

Outside of church, Stewart enjoyed deep sea fishing, traveling, and spending time with the people he loved. His career took him to New Zealand and Australia, and later in life he enjoyed traveling to Belgium and Spain. He also spent countless hours coaching and refereeing Kathleen's soccer teams throughout nearly all sixteen years that she played, finding joy in encouraging young people both on and off the field.

Throughout his life, Stewart was known for his quiet strength, humility, kindness, and unwavering willingness to serve others. Whether through his work, his faith, his volunteer service, or the way he cared for family and friends, he lived with a servant's heart and never sought recognition for the many lives he touched.

Stewart is survived by his beloved wife, France Imagawa; his daughter, Kathleen Imagawa; his sisters, Donna Minamide and Linda Ogata; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Service Information:

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Stewart's life.

Rosary & Vigil
Thursday, July 9, 2026
7:00–9:00 p.m.
O'Connor Mortuary, 25301 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Hills

Funeral Mass
Friday, July 10, 2026
10:00 a.m.
Santiago de Compostela Catholic Church, 21682 Lake Forest Dr, Lake Forest

A reception will immediately follow the Mass in the parish hall.

To celebrate Stewart's joyful spirit and love of the islands, guests are invited to wear their favorite Hawaiian shirt.

The family would also be grateful if you would share any photographs you have of Stewart. A link to a shared Google Drive photo album is provided below, and any photos you can contribute will help preserve and celebrate the many memories of his life.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1IsQNcPYaztkTgiDChhZ_sPlXK5XpNst1

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Stewart's memory to Saint Michael's Abbey Seminarians using the link provided below.
https://www.stmichaelsabbey.com/one-time-donation