Harold Nakano

Harold Takeshi Nakano (also known as “Nakan” and “Boppo”), former longtime Hermiston resident, 81, died Saturday, March 4, 2023, in his home in Nampa, Idaho after a short struggle with liver failure. Harold was born May 5, 1941, in Ogden, Utah to Takeo and Lily Nakano.  He graduated from Marsing High School in 1959 and went on to attend Idaho State University where he received a Bachelor of Science. He was short in stature but mighty in spirit and body, winning the High School State Championship in Wrestling his Junior Year. He later went on to become an accomplished tennis and racquetball player and even earned a Black Belt in Judo.
Harold then worked in the banking industry for many years eventually taking his banking and accounting talents overseas in Libya. He had a successful career in many capacities before moving back to Idaho in the mid 80’s to care for his parents. He then moved to Hermiston, Oregon to take a position working with his brother-in-law, Sach Mikami, at Mikami Brothers Farm.
Harold and Erla were married in June 1987 in Boise, Idaho. They lived in Hermiston, Oregon for over 30 years making many friends and memories along the way.  
“Boppo” (a name given to him by his young grandchildren) enjoyed gardening and cooking but mostly he enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He loved teasing the kids and feeding them with homemade Japanese noodles, weenies, rice, and homemade ice cream. He also had great taste in a variety of automobiles. Many friends and family members will remember Harold/Nakan/Boppo for his generosity and gifting of Hermiston watermelons, making trips to Idaho with a truckload of melons to share with family and friends.  He was loved by everyone who met him, and we believe was one of the most selfless men that God ever created. His quiet compassion and caring soul were an example to all of us.

Harold is survived by his wife of 35 years, Erla (Lehman) Nakano, Nampa; son, Jim Stoner, Nampa; daughter, Susie Brocke, Meridian; son, Jay Stoner, Boise; grandchildren, Fin Stoner, Allie, Kaden, and Kortland Brocke and Ashley and Adam Stoner.  He is also survived by his sisters, Miyoko Mikami of Hermiston, OR and Joyce Kirk of Burley; brothers Wallace (Wally) Nakano of Meridian, and Sandy Nakano of California and many nieces, nephews and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Takeo and Lily Nakano.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests jarred candles that can be lit in his memory, so his loving light shines on.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held on Saturday, March 18th from 2pm-5pm at Spur Wing Country Club in Meridian, Idaho.

There will also be a ceremony held at Burns Chapel in Hermiston, Oregon on Saturday, March 25th at 11:00am.

Please share memories of Harold with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com

Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, Oregon is in care of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Harold Nakano, please visit our floral store.