Issue:
April 2024 | Obituary
Shiro Yoneyama (1950-2024)
The last time I spoke with Yoneyama-san was on February 26, 2024. I first called him just after 11 am. but could not get through for some reason. I called back about 30 minutes later and he answered the phone.
I said: "I would like to interview a former Trump administration official at the bar next to the podium after his press conference at the FCCJ. But I am not a member of the club and can’t use the bar, so I would appreciate it if you, as a member, could help me.”
He turned down my request at first, but after a while, he called me back and said: "Okay. You can put my name out there to use the bar, and I'll call the FCCJ secretariat.”
It was at Yoneyama-san’s funeral that I learned he had been hospitalized on February 26. He must have been feeling ill when I called him. Nevertheless, he did everything he could to help me.
He passed away three days later. I regret very much that I knew nothing of his condition.
Yoneyama-san, please rest in peace in heaven. Your peaceful smile will live forever in my heart.
Thank you so much.
Sincerely,
Shogo Kawakita
Deputy Managing Writer & Editorial Writer, Kyodo News
