Dr. Jeffrey K. Okamitsu

Dr. Jeffrey K. Okamitsu, age 68, of Westminster, Maryland passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 3, 2025. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, he was the second of three children of Taketo Okamitsu and Dorothea (Okamitsu) Nomura.

From an early age, Jeffrey showed a remarkable aptitude for learning and discovery. He attended the prestigious Kamehameha Schools, a renowned institution dedicated to educating children of Native Hawaiian ancestry, which he was eligible to attend through his mother's lineage. In high school, he received his Ham radio license, sparking a lifelong passion for communication, science, and technology; and continued to enjoy ham radio as a personal hobby throughout his life.

Jeffrey pursued higher education with distinction, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Mathematics, graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of Colorado in 1978. He continued his studies at Columbia University, where he earned a Ph.D. in Physics in 1984.

Dr. Okamitsu's career began in academia, where he quickly gained recognition for his groundbreaking contributions to the field. He later joined the Department of Physics at Princeton University as a Research Associate and Lecturer, inspiring students with his passion for teaching while conducting research in high-energy physics that ultimately advanced our understanding of the universe.

During this time, his life took a meaningful turn toward family when he met Winnie, who had two children, Vincent and Stephen, from a previous marriage. They married shortly after and spent the next 34 years building a life together as a devoted husband and stepfather.

Jeffrey also made a significant professional transition, leaving academia to pursue a career in industry, where he held leadership roles in engineering, technology, and product innovation, culminating in multiple patents to his name. Driven by a passion for growth and leadership, Jeffrey completed an Executive MBA from Temple University in the year 2000.

Later in life, he established his own consulting business, inspired by a desire to share his knowledge and help others realize their ambitions. Utilizing his broad expertise, he supported clients across the defense, commercial, and nonprofit sectors, fostering innovation and creating a lasting impact through his work.

Dr. Jeffrey Okamitsu is remembered not only for his intellectual achievements but also for his warmth, generosity, and love of family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Winifred Okamitsu of Maryland; two stepchildren, Vincent Lafferty and Stephen Lafferty of New Jersey; and three cherished step-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he also survived by his elder sister Liane Okamitsu of Hawaii and younger brother Kimo Okamitsu of California, as well as his nephew Alika Okamitsu and niece Kanani Okamitsu

A devoted scholar, mentor, and husband, Dr. Jeffrey Okamitsu's life was a testament to the pursuit of knowledge and the power of kindness. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Honoring his final wishes and his heritage, his ashes will be laid to rest in his home state of Hawaii.