BOMBER MEMORIAL

AUSTIN KATAYAMA ~ Class of 2011
February 26, 1993 - October 15, 2011

Our hearts are deeply saddened by the passing of Austin Katayama, age 18. He was a joy to all those in his life that he touched. He was born on February 26th, 1993, raised in Richland, and died on October 15th, 2011.

He is survived by his mother and step-father Earlein and Kevin Smith. Father Michael Katayama. Sister and brother Mikayla and Brayden Smith.

Grandparents; Earl and Bernice Penor, David and Connie Grytness, Y. Bruce and Catherine Katayama. Best friend David Law. Aunts and Uncles; Judy Penor, Jackie and Kevin Templeton, Maxine and Randy Otte, Jaylein and Phil Groves, Wendy and James Petty, Shenen Penor, Earl "Buddy" Penor, Jenny and Lee Burton, Kimberly and Luke MacRae, Kathy Grytness.

Cousins: Tascina, Tisa, Tiana, Toni, Taye, Justin, Kyler, Brandon, Chase, Sean, Jason, Cody, Kendell, Jeremiah, Riel, Shelly, Colt, Wes, John, Amanda, Danny, James Jr., Desiree, Alexis P., Robert, Shelby, Alexis P., Chase B.

Preceded in death by DeeAnna Penor (Aunt) and Jerry Grytnesf (Uncle.)

He attended Richland High School and Columbia Basin College. He had a strong passion for music and played the drums. He was active in many sports during his life but his favorite was wrestling. He loved to ride dirt bikes, snowboard, boating and surfing. He was creative and artistic with drawings. He enjoyed movies and hanging out with his friends. He was energetic, compassionate, and will be dearly missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Youth Suicide Prevention Program (YSPP) in honor of Austin.

A memorial service was held on Sunday, October 23, 2011 at Einan's Funeral Home with a reception following to the Knights of Columbus in Richland.

Published in the Tri-City Herald from October 20 to October 21, 2011