We wish to honour the memory of Tetsuo (Ted) Itani, a respected member of our community. A beautiful tribute has been created by the Nikkei Place Foundation, highlighting Ted’s contributions and impact.
Ted’s journey began (born Sansei) in Ucluelet, B.C., son of Takeo Itani (commercial fisherman) and Sumako Oye. Shortly after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Ted’s family was forcibly removed from their home, taking only the possessions they could carry. They were confined in primitive stables in Hastings Park, Vancouver, until months later when they were moved north by train, and incarcerated in a camp in East Lillooet on the Fraser River, 1942. Having lost their civil rights – though all were Canadian citizens – they remained in BC’s interior until after the end of the war. By then, their confiscated possessions had been sold off. continue reading…
Ted’s dedication to peace and humanitarian work is truly inspiring. Furthering his legacy is the Tetsuo (Ted) and Frances Itani Endowment Fund.
Established in loving memory of Major Tetsuo (Ted) Itani, the Endowment Fund honours his lifetime contributions to peace and humanitarian work, and his deep commitment to the Japanese Canadian community. Through this endowment, Ted’s legacy lives on, supporting the long-term preservation of objects stored in the Nikkei National Museum Collections & Archives. This vital support ensures that the stories and artifacts of our community are preserved for future generations.
