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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Takehiko “Taxie” Yamamoto on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at the age of 97. He is now reunited with his beloved wife, Annie (née Wrazy). Taxie, known as “Gege” to his family, will be deeply missed by his daughters Adele Arbour and Josephine O’Brien, his grandchildren, Gregory Filson (Tianna), Kathy O’Brien, and Francis O’Brien (Stephanie Wybrew). Forever in the hearts of his great-grandchildren, Sloane and Myles O’Brien, who brought him great joy. Beloved brother of Henry Yamamoto (Lois). Predeceased by his parents, Fusakichi and Uematsu (née Tomie), sister, Mitsuyo Uyematsu, as well as his son, Edward Wiekowicz, and grandson, Gerald Filson.
A celebrated chef, Taxie earned several awards for his culinary skills during his career with the Niagara Parks Commission and the St. Catharines Golf and Country Club. Taxie also took great pride in gardening, which earned him and Annie a Trillium Award for their beautiful yard. Delicious meals and welcoming gardens created many fond memories for family and friends over the years. Taxie enjoyed spending time with family and watching sports, unwaveringly cheering on his favourite teams, the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Las Vegas Raiders.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Heidehof for their exceptional care, compassion, and kindness. A special thank you to Nicole for her dedicated care, support, and friendship.
In keeping with Taxie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. His final resting place will be Doan’s Ridge Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest with his beloved wife. Arrangements have been entrusted to Tranquility Burial & Cremation Services (Niagara) Inc. Condolences may be shared at tranquilitycremation.com.
He will be remembered for his love of family, quiet strength, and the lasting impact he made on all who knew him. We love you and will miss you — Ichiban!
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4 Guestbook Entries
April 16, 2026 | Carol and Denis Fallat
We are both so sorry to hear of your family’s loss. We often saw Taxie walking the halls at Heidehof getting his steps in and depending on the season he would be wearing a Toronto Maple Leafs jersey or Blue Jays ball cap. Our Mom
Eunice lived just down the hall from him and he always stopped for a chat with us. He will be missed by all who were lucky enough to get to know him. Sending our deepest condolences.
April 20, 2026 | Suzanne and Randy Lean
Our deepest sympathies to the family and our dear friend Adele. It’s clear to see the wonderful influence he had shaping such a kind and amazing woman. May you carry his memory with you.
April 20, 2026 | John Mesaros
My condolences to the family of my old friend Taxi,, I worked at Table Rock when I was 16-18yrs old, 1980-82. I worked under Taxi of course,, I just want to share that I learned a lot more than cooking from Taxi,, I know in my time, every one greatly appreciated Taxi, he was one of a kind, I’ve never forgotten the wise leadership I was fortunate to get at a young age, from such a wise and patient man.
Rest In Peace Old Friend🙏✌️🙏
April 22, 2026 | Cathy and Mark Patterson
Taxie and Annie were our wonderful neighbours on Village Rd. from 1986 till their Heidehoff home.
They loved having our cats into their home for fish meals. When our kitty Chance was killed on the road, Taxie brought over roses to place on his grave. Our next kitty was going to be an indoor one. We took this cute little guy over to ask Taxie if we could name him after him. Taxie was thrilled and honoured!
We often popped in to see Taxie to share lots of happy memories. We will miss you.
Rest in peace dear Taxie.
Warmest memories and sympathy,
Mark and Cathy.