1937
Shin
2014
Shin Matsutani
March 25, 1937 — February 28, 2014
Shin Matsutani was born in Terminal Island, California to Kametaro (Bill) and Ise Matsutani. He was the eldest son of three boys, followed by Hisashi and Osamu. At the age of five, Shin and his family were sent to Poston, Arizona, where he spent three years of his childhood interned in a War Relocation Camp. Following the war, his family returned to the San Pedro area.
After graduating from San Pedro High School, Shin went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree and teaching credential from California State University, Long Beach. In 1960, Shin joined the United States Army. During his service, he specialized in heavy weapons and also served as an assistant football coach of the Third Infantry Division, in West Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1962.
He then began a 30 year career in teaching. Shin taught in the areas of biology/general sciences, physical education and coaching (football, basketball, gymnastics, track) at various junior and senior high schools in the Los Angeles and Long Beach Unified School Districts. In 1991 he relocated to the state of Washington and returned to Los Angeles in 1995.
Shin was well respected by his students and peers. He touched and transformed many lives not only in his teaching positions but also in the community. Through his ministry in Youth Groups, Sunday School classes and Bible Studies at various churches, he influenced many people in their faith and their walk with Christ. His passion in life was to help others, participate in sports and enjoy food. He will be missed by many of his relatives and friends.
Shin is predeceased by his brother, Hisashi (Wendy) Matsutani, survived by his brother, Dr. Osamu (Grace) Matsutani and nieces Dr. Kathleen Matsutani (James Balnaves) and Megan Matsutani.
"For I am the LORD your GOD, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 31:13
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in memory of Shin Matsutani to: Beacon Light Mission 525 Broad Avenue, Wilmington, California 90744.
Funeral Home:
Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel
27501 S.Western Ave.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
US 90275
After graduating from San Pedro High School, Shin went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree and teaching credential from California State University, Long Beach. In 1960, Shin joined the United States Army. During his service, he specialized in heavy weapons and also served as an assistant football coach of the Third Infantry Division, in West Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1962.
He then began a 30 year career in teaching. Shin taught in the areas of biology/general sciences, physical education and coaching (football, basketball, gymnastics, track) at various junior and senior high schools in the Los Angeles and Long Beach Unified School Districts. In 1991 he relocated to the state of Washington and returned to Los Angeles in 1995.
Shin was well respected by his students and peers. He touched and transformed many lives not only in his teaching positions but also in the community. Through his ministry in Youth Groups, Sunday School classes and Bible Studies at various churches, he influenced many people in their faith and their walk with Christ. His passion in life was to help others, participate in sports and enjoy food. He will be missed by many of his relatives and friends.
Shin is predeceased by his brother, Hisashi (Wendy) Matsutani, survived by his brother, Dr. Osamu (Grace) Matsutani and nieces Dr. Kathleen Matsutani (James Balnaves) and Megan Matsutani.
"For I am the LORD your GOD, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 31:13
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in memory of Shin Matsutani to: Beacon Light Mission 525 Broad Avenue, Wilmington, California 90744.
Funeral Home:
Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel
27501 S.Western Ave.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
US 90275
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