Franklin Shigenobu Baba was born on July 17, 1933 in Merced, California and passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on June 3, 2025.
He was a Nissei (second generation) Japanese farmer who lived his entire life on the family farm in the Cortez Colony of Japanese settlers in Merced County. The only exception to this was four years during World War II when his family was incarcerated along with other Japanese families at the Amache Internment Camp in Colorado and, in addition, the two years he spent during the Korean War serving in the U.S. army stationed in Germany. After his discharge from the army, he attended U.C. Davis, earning a degree in agriculture. He continued to farm, mostly almonds, until he retired in his 70s. In his younger years, Frank was an avid fisherman. He never sat in a boat, however, preferring to find the “perfect” spot along a stream no matter how difficult it was to access. He also spent many enjoyable years competing in bowling leagues and hitting the slots in Reno and nearby casinos.
At age 45 he was set up on a “blind date” with an eligible young teacher and it wasn’t long before he left his bachelor days behind. A whole new adventure of Lake Tahoe trips, Caribbean cruises. Hawaiian vacations, camping, and enjoying kid’s sports ensued. Frank was a member of The Japanese American Citizen’s League, the American Legion, the Cortez Growers Association, the Cortez Buddhist Church and The Buddhist Church of Stockton.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Yoshio and Masako Baba, and sisters Nobi Huie and Michi Sakaguchi. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Mikala (Miki) Baba, son Mitchell (Ashlee), grandchildren: Brookelyn, Logan and Morgan.
At his request there will be no services and scattering of ashes will be private. Bequests can be made on behalf of Franklin to The Buddhist Church of Stockton.
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