Takahashi memorialized at Clovis hospital
Family, friends and staff gathered Nov. 3, on the Clovis Community Medical Center south lawn to remember long-time board member and Clovis icon Yoshito “Yosh” Takahashi.
The 11 a.m. ceremony was emceed by MedWatch host Cindy Suryan, with guest speakers Community Medical Centers emeritus board member Joe Levy, Clovis Community CEO Craig Castro and Community Medical Foundation board chair Melissa Der Manouel. Takahashi’s daughter Lorraine Takahashi, also a Foundation board member, helped family members unveil the memorial at the event.
Overlooking the reflecting pond is a bronze plaque on a granite pedestal recognizing Takahashi’s contributions. It reads:
“A true pioneer who dedicated over 40 years of service and support to Clovis Community Medical Center hoping to ensure quality health care for all residents of Clovis and the San Joaquin Valley.”
Two benches sit near a cedar tree, also planted in his memory. The site serves as a place of meditation for visitors, patients and staff.
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| Yoshito Takahashi |
More than two decades ago, Takahashi was part of a visionary board of trustees who made plans to build a Clovis hospital “out in the middle of nowhere.” That vision developed into Clovis Community becoming a leading-edge, people’s choice hospital that is nationally recognized for areas of excellence.
Takahashi was born in Clovis, where he lived all his life. He graduated from Clovis High School and purchased the Herbert G. Johnson Ranch, which soon became Takahashi Farms. He established the fruit stand business as part of the operation at the corner of Herndon and Clovis avenues.
This story was reported by Mary Lisa Russell. She can be reached at mrussell@communitymedical.org.