Obituary of Sam Isamu Matsuo

In Loving Memory

SAM ISAMU MATSUO

1930-2025

 It is with broken hearts, we announce the passing of Sam Matsuo on January 10, 2025. Sam died peacefully with family by his side at the age of 94. Sam was born on July 3, 1930, in Duncan BC and at the age of 12, when the second world war started his family was interned to Petersfield, Manitoba where they worked on a sugar beet farm.  In 1945 the family moved to Selkirk where Sam excelled at baseball with the Selkirk Giants.   

After 2 years in Selkirk, the family settled in Winnipeg.  He built an illustrious career in advertising and was the creative genius behind many of the logos that are still present today.  He enhanced the quality of advertising design in Winnipeg for more than three decades, not only by his own creative talent and dedication, but by mentoring many others with his inspiring example and patient guidance.

It was in Winnipeg where he met his beloved Clare and shared 71 wonderful years together. He was a true partner, loving and endlessly devoted.  They built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter and countless cherished memories. 

As a father to his 3 daughters, he was a constant source of encouragement and strength and the foundation of our family. His support was unwavering and his love unconditional. 

Sam’s love for golf gave him over 50 years of joy making wonderful memories and lasting friendships. He felt proud to still walk the course at 86 and lucky for his two hole in ones.

Sam’s backyard on Rosseau Avenue was a Japanese garden masterpiece blooming in stages throughout spring, summer and fall.  He would work endlessly making sure that all weeds were picked and well into his 80’s was still climbing trees to insure that they were pruned to Bonsai perfection.

He was an active member in the Japanese Cultural Association of Manitoba (JCAM). He was the driving force behind any creative endeavor that the association required, ranging from designing and maintaining the Japanese gardens, input on architectural design and any artistic design needed for social events.  At the age of 87, his many years of voluntary participation were celebrated at a gala dinner to honour his longtime contribution to the association.

Sam was a humble man of quiet strength, who was always ready to offer a helping hand or word of encouragement. His family was his greatest pride and his love and dedication to them knew no limits.

He is survived by his wife Clare; his children Lori (Steve), Kim (Jeff) and Bobbi (Martyn); grandchildren Jason (Dana), Sean, Chad (Ashton), Eddie (Marco) and Shayna (Mark); great-grandchildren Knox and Brooks; and countless other relatives and friends who loved him dearly.

Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit will forever remain a part of the lives he touched. 

Rest in peace Dad, you were a beacon of light in our lives, a constant pillar of love and strength and we will carry your love with us always.  See you at the end of the rainbow!

As per his wishes a private family celebration of life will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Our family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Sam’s Devonshire II family and the loving support from their Homecare team!