Georgie Alan Tsushima (1988-2015)
TSUSHIMA, DOWNING, MATIBAG, ADAMS
Posted By: Mark Christian
Date: 7/25/2015 at 12:22:25
Obituary From Adams Soderstrum Funeral Home, Story County, Iowa.
Georgie Alan Tsushima’s physical presence on this earth came to an end at his family home in Ames on July 18, 2015. A memorial celebration of his life will be held at the Maple Shelter at Brookside Park from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 25.
Georgie was born in Seattle, WA, on December 11, 1988, to Masahiro and Teresa Tsushima (now Teresa Downing-Matibag). He is survived by his parents; brother and sister, Jyoshu and Mariay Tsushima; Grandmother, Joyce Adams; and stepfather Eugenio Matibag and his children, Teresa and Cristobal Matibag.
Georgie lived a life of love and grace, embracing family and friends with his whole heart, forgiveness when needed, and the belief that each is uniquely gifted with a special purpose. In following the passions of his own heart, including building a career in the skateboard industry as a skateboarder and videographer, he shared his love of life with everyone he knew, befriended and mentored youth of all ages, and exemplified living purposely and with integrity.
We lost him on the day that he hosted the grand opening of his skateboard shop in campus town; a business which he developed in service to the community, to provide kids, young adults, and families a place to meet new friends, feel welcomed, and share their love of his favorite sport. He told his mom, “I don’t care if the business makes a profit, as long as it is sustainable and makes people happy,” emphasizing that anyone who walked through its doors would find a place of welcome and friendship.
His sister Mariay’s message to him on Facebook tells the story of a well-loved brother:
“The legacy you've left behind is cherished and will be lived through by many. I can't believe that I am lucky enough to have called you my brother, hero, inspiration and best friend but also that you were able to be that person to everyone you touched. Look at this shop, it's all you. The love and passion you put into it is felt every minute were here. I miss you and the days are going to be near impossible to get through, but with your spirit in me and everyone else, I know it's going to work out. Because the biggest thing I've learned from you, is that there is no obstacle that can't be overcome. I love you so much, I can't wait to see you again.”
His brother Jyoshu’s message also tells this story:
“Despite our best efforts, we have lost one of our best. Georgie gave everything for his passions: skateboarding, friends, family, and a good life. The magnitude of compassion from everyone has shown how tremendous of an impact Georgie has had on all of us, and his passions still live in us. Every time you push for a new trick, fool around on the lens, party into the night, or even enjoy a breeze, Georgie is there loving life with you, ready for the next moment.”
Georgie graduated with honors from Ames High School in 2007 and attended Iowa State University for two years prior to accepting a videographer position with VOX Skateboard Shoe Company in Oceanside, California. While living in CA, working, and continuing his education, he traveled across the country to record local youth skateboarders so that he could feature them on his company’s international website and encourage them in their sport and life. He wanted all kids to know they were special and motivated many to follow their dreams, do well in school, and engage in activities which would truly benefit themselves and others. He will be missed and loved forever by family and friends alike.
The first three letters of his business’s name, FLC Skateboard Shop, stands for “Flatland Crew,” his close skateboarding group of friends in Ames. His family plans to keep Georgie’s dream of serving the community alive by keeping the business open, and it will be managed by his close friends.
A memorial celebration for Georgie will be held on Saturday, July 25, from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Maple Shelter at Brookside Park, in Ames. Guests are encouraged to bring a dish or food to grill, and chairs. Please do not send flowers. Contributions to Georgie’s memorial fund may be made online at http://www.youcaring.com/georgie-tsushima-397861; or checks may be made out to “In Georgie’s Memory” and sent to his mom, Teresa Downing-Matibag, at 1005 Jarrett Circle, Ames, IA 50014.
http://www.adamssoderstrum.com/
Story Obituaries maintained by Mark Christian.
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