Michael Omatsu was born in Honolulu, HI on December 13, 1951. He loved the ocean and
embraced every opportunity to incorporate it into his life; from skipping class in high school to go
surfing (to the detriment of his grades) to becoming a certified hard helmet diver. His affection
for the ocean drew him to his career as an officer in the United States Coast Guard. Ironically,
the USCG is what brought Michael to the Midwest, where he retired in 1999 after 22 years of
active duty.

Michael was preceded in death by both parents, Yasumi and Miyeko Omatsu. He is survived by
his wife, Susan, and both daughters Anna (Bryan) Raymer and Leslie (Daniel) Crouch. He was
blessed with 6 grandchildren: Xander, Mina, Emily, Cooper, Collin, and Evie. He is also survived
by his 3 brothers: Patrick, Stephen, and Sean Omatsu. He leaves behind very special friends,
Sheila Sumpter and Elizabeth Burns.

Michael never met a stranger and would regale anyone that would listen with his stories (a gift
he inherited from his father). Whether it be stories of his time sailing with the USCG, his
involvement in the Japanese American Veterans Association, or his many political beliefs. He
enjoyed being the handy man of the family and fixing things for everyone. Michael loved to play
the ukulele and share his music with his family and friends. He enjoyed cooking and grilling
when given the chance.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, November 23, 2021, 1:00 p.m. at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Missouri, with full military honors, under the direction of Sunset Hill Funeral Home, Glen Carbon, Illinois.  Visitation will follow at Sunset Hill Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.

In Lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to donor's choice.