Ian Noboru Miki
A dedicated Board Director and pillar of the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre, Ian Miki, passed away in May 2024. His family’s internment during WWII in Greenwood, BC, inspired his dedication to preserving Japanese Canadian history and heritage for future generations. Serving since 2012, Ian volunteered his time and expertise to Nikkei Place, playing a key role in fundraising, development, and caring for the Nikkei Centre facility and Nikkei Garden. His kindness and positive spirit were truly remarkable, and he is dearly missed by everyone who was touched by his life.
A celebration of life was held on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre.
In the Nikkei Garden, a bench has been dedicated in memory of Ian, facing the pine tree he gave to Nikkei Centre on their 20th anniversary. This lasting tribute will forever celebrate his leadership, compassion, and commitment to the community.
Ian Miki Obituary ~ From His Loving Family
12 AUGUST, 1971 – 11 MAY, 2024
Ian Noboru Miki, born August 12, 1971, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on May 11, 2024.
Ian will be remembered with love by his wife Chieko, son Brian and daughters, Emily and Sophia. He will be deeply missed by his mother, Tsuneko, sister, Evy (Albert) and niece, Christina, as well as his in-laws and many extended family members, including uncles, aunts and cousins. Ian was pre-deceased by his father Robert Toru Miki.
Ian was born and raised in Surrey, BC. He went on to study civil engineering at UBC and started his career at the BC Ministry of Transportation, working in Prince George and Victoria before moving back to the Lower Mainland. After 8 years with the ministry, Ian moved to the private sector, working in various roles at FortisBC for 22 years. Ian had a very rewarding career and cherished the relationships he built with his co-workers.
As an adult, Ian settled in Burnaby and made many good neighbourhood friends. He wished to thank all the families on McKee Street and the surrounding areas for being great, supportive neighbours for over 20 years.
Ian was an active volunteer in the Nikkei community. As a result of his father and his family being interned during the second world war in Greenwood, BC, he was interested in his family history and supporting the preservation of Japanese Canadian history. Ian volunteered his time at the Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Center and was a volunteer director for over 10 years.
Ian’s life-long hobby was kendo. He started kendo at the age of seven and continued until his illness. He cherished the many friendships he made through kendo and is also proud that his son, Brian, continues this tradition.
Ian was diagnosed with lymphoma in September, 2023. He fought a long battle and passed away peacefully at St Michael’s Centre, surrounded by his loving family.
Ian accomplished much in his 52 years and appreciated the many friendships he developed through his work, hobbies and volunteering.
In accordance with Ian’s wishes, in lieu of flowers and koden, please consider a donation to the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre Maintenance Fund in Ian’s memory.