SJSU King Library reposted this
San José State University mourns the loss of Yoshihiro “Yosh” Uchida, a beloved Spartan who passed away on Thursday at the age of 104. Yosh, as many affectionately called him, earned his bachelor’s degree in biological sciences in 1947 and an honorary doctorate in 2004 from #SJSU, and is one of the most renowned and accomplished Spartans in the history of the university. Born on April 1, 1920, in Calexico, Calif., Yosh was named San José State's first judo coach in 1940, when he enrolled as a student, and again in 1946 after he returned from four years in the U.S. Army during World War II. In 1964, he coached the U.S. judo team at the Tokyo Olympics, the first time judo appeared in an Olympics. He remained the coach of SJSU’s judo program for the rest of his life, and in 2023, was honored for 75 years of service to the university. Overall, Yosh coached the Spartans to more than 40 collegiate titles and trained nearly two dozen Olympians, including four medalists. We are incredibly proud and thankful for the impact Yosh not only made on our university, but our nation and the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Uchida family and the many friends, athletes and Spartans who knew Yosh.
If Sjs had a Mt Rushmore, Yosh is definitely on there….He taught a high degree of self discipline to the people under his charge.
Truly a legend, he will be missed.
RIP Sensei! You taught so much more than the physical aspect of Judo. You also had such a great sense of humor! My first sparring partner was 6'4 to my near 5'0 frame - now that was funny!
A 104 yr living legend has passed. Let’s take a seriously long moment to consider the contributions this man has made to Judo, SJSU school and the community.
A legendary Spartan who left this world a better place. May he rest in peace. Class ’94
Peace be with your soul. You gave your all to make us better. Thank you
Here is a example of a great man, that stayed humble and inquisitive all his life. What an inspiration. Your legacy will continue to impact San Jose State University for decades to come. 🙏🏼
A staple in the San José community. May his memory be a spark of joy.
What an impact this human has made at SJSU. May his Spartan legacy live on.
Retired Supervising Probation Officer
3wNo recognition in the local news??? He was a South Bay icon. Rest in Peace Yosh. Glad you got to live a full life!