Obituary of Masami Nagamitsu

Masami (Dick) Nagamitsu was born on March 2, 1925 in Belt, Montana to Masa (mother) and Maso (father) Nagamitsu. He passed away on March 30, 2020 at his home, surrounded by his family. Dick was top of his class at Box Elder High School where he graduated in 1943. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agronomy in 1949, then a master’s degree at Washington State University. Dick proudly served his country in the U.S Army in 1946 and 1947. In 1952 Dick launched a 38-year career at the Washington State University Dryland Research Unit in Lind, Washington where he was involved with development of various wheat breeds, including McCall, Wanser, Sprague, Hatton, Batum, Buchanan, and Urquie. WSU developed a breed, and in his honor, named it “Masami”. Dick was a member of Active International from 1955 to 1967. He was a past President and District Governor. He was also a character member of the Lind Lions Club, and served as President, Zone Chairman, and Charter Secretary. He was an active member of the Lind United Methodist Church. Dick is preceded in death by one brother Tom Nagamitsu, one sister Emi Colier, son Jerry Longmeier. Dick is survived by his wife of 49 years, Gladys, two sisters Fumi Kyono, and Mems Kitagowa. Children: Bob (Lois) Longmeier, Donna (Garry) Bittick, Steve (Cathy) Longmeier. 13 grandchildren, 18 great ganchildren, 2 great greatgrandchildren along with many nieces and nephews. Dick enjoyed time with his grand kids and great grandkids. He will be forever missed. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. To make donations please send to The Ronald McDonald House Charities. To leave online condolences for the Nagamitsu family please visit our website at www.danekasfh.com