Interview with Tom Takashima

Tom Takashima's interview was conducted on May 2, 2012, by Peter Wakayama. Tom was born on December 12, 1922 in Vancouver, BC. His father emigrated to Canada through the Yobiyose visa when he was a teen in 1908. His parents got married through a familial arrangement. Tom grew up with five siblings in the eastern part of Vancouver known as "Heaps" before moving to the Kitsilano neighbourhood when the family bought a home. Tom talks about his experience growing up there and going to school. In 1929, Tom's father lost his job during the Great Depression and the family experience hardship especially when one of Tom's younger siblings had health issues. During the war, Tom's family was separated. Tom worked in a mink farm and also road camp in Ontario during the war. After the war, Tom bought a home in Toronto and the family lived together. Tom would go on to own successful businesses before his retirement. His sister, Shinchan (Shizue Takashima) authored and illustrated the  book, "A Child in Prison Camp" that speaks to her experience during WWII.