To some, being a member at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre is more than just the membership, it is also participating in activities and events, volunteering time and assistance, and being part of a community. Thomas Arai was one of those members.

Born in B.C. Canada in 1925 to a hard working and loving family, Thomas grew up in a rural environment where his family was involved with strawberry farming. Like many Japanese Canadian families Thomas and his family was relocated and interned during WWII. After the War Thomas began working for the B.C. Security Commission but in the mid 40's he moved to Toronto to be with his brother. He worked various jobs in Toronto but eventually he studied auto mechanics and went into the business with his brother.

In the early 1950's Thomas met and married the love of his life Betty Lou. Betty Lou was a nurse but she also was, and still is, a professor of Ikebana. Betty Lou regularly teaches Ikebana classes at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, and Thomas would often assist Betty Lou when she would teach. Thomas also helped others at the centre, and was not shy to volunteer his time and friendship when needed. Thomas and Betty Lou have helped bring meaning and value to the Centre and to those who use it.

Thomas not only devoted his time to the JCCC but was also known to spend time at his local church helping out youth who needed guidance and support. Thomas was a wonderfully dedicated man who was known to be meticulous and tidy, and generous and understanding. He was a craftsman and an artist known for his watercolours. He loved cars and loved to drive; he often would drive out west and has driven as far west as Alaska.

Sadly Thomas passed away on June 20 th , 2006. He was surrounded by his loving wife and his many nieces and nephews. His spirit and dedication will forever live on at the JCCC.

Thomas will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre is saddened by the loss of a great member, and most importantly a great friend.

"It was very sad to lose such a great man and friend like Tom. He was a great volunteer, a hard worker, and always reliable. He was a quiet man who made a huge impact on us all. He is deeply missed."

Thomas Arai's family have expressed that all memorial donations be made to the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre - Capital Campaign, in memory of Thomas Arai.

Our sincerest thanks go out to all of those who have already made a donation in the memory of Thomas Arai.

"On behalf of the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family of Thomas Arai. Tom was a true Japanese Canadian gentleman. For me he was the embodiment of the best qualities associated with the community; modesty, humility, quiet strength and considerable artistic accomplishment. It seems fitting that so many contributions have been made to our capital expansion in Tom's name. It is wonderful to see that his contribution will be reflected the physical building as well as in its spirit."

If you would like to make a donation to the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre in memory of Thomas Arai please call the JCCC at 416-441-2345. Or if you have any questions regarding the Capital Campaign, or if you would like to learn more about Leaving a Legacy at the JCCC please contact Bill Petruck at 416-441-2345 ext. 225.