1933-2023
Eiichi Shimomisse, age 90, of Rancho Palos Verdes, passed away peacefully at his home on October 8, 2023, 10 years after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s. He was born on July 1, 1933, in Kyoto, Japan. Eiichi was a highly respected philosopher and educator, leaving a remarkable legacy.
After completing his education at Kyoto University in Kyoto, Japan, where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy, Eiichi pursued further studies at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany, earning a Ph.D. in Philosophy.
Eiichi dedicated his career to academia, beginning as an Assistant Professor at USC in Los Angeles. His passion for teaching and philosophy led him to become a Professor of Philosophy and Chair of the Philosophy Department at California State University, Dominguez Hills in Carson, CA. Eiichi’s knowledge and expertise in the field inspired countless students throughout his years of teaching.
Eiichi was a Buddhist, he also had a love of music, especially classical and opera, and he learned to play the violin at the age of 10. He also loved to entertain friends and family, often cooking for them.
Eiichi is survived by his loving wife Lavonne, his stepson David Austin and stepdaughter Krista Rae Austin, all of Rancho Palos Verdes, his step-grandson Joshua Khem and two step-great-granddaughters, Kaelyn Khem and Lyliahna Khem of Apple Valley, sister-in-laws Karan Neal Clarke (John Clarke) of the Central Coast and Noriko Shimomisse of Kyoto, Japan. Eiichi was preceded in death by his father, Shizuichi Shimomisse, an art historian, his mother Masano Shimomisse, and his younger brother Sohachi Shimomisse, an artist, all of Kyoto, Japan.
Eiichi is interred at Green Hills Memorial Park, 27501 S. Western Avenue, Rancho Palos Verdes, California.
Eiichi Shimomisse will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and students. His contributions to the field of philosophy and his dedication to education will be remembered and cherished. May he rest in peace.