JAPAN’S OLDEST MAN SONOBE DIES AT 112

Fri 05 April 2024:

A 112-year-old man, recognized as Japan’s oldest male, has passed away in Chiba prefecture near Tokyo, local media reported on Thursday.

Gisaburo Sonobe, who died in late March, was born on Nov. 6, 1911 and became the country’s oldest man after his predecessor died in November 2022 at 111, the national news agency Kyodo reported, citing local authorities.

The municipal government of Tateyama, where Sonobe resided, has not revealed the exact date nor the cause of his death at the request of his family, the report noted.

On Wednesday, Guinness World Records said that the world’s oldest man, Juan Vicente Perez, had died at 114 in Venezuela. Sonobe had been expected to be the next title holder.

According to Gulf News, Sonobe dedicated decades to educating the youth, teaching Japanese language and society at both junior and senior high schools.

After his teaching career, he transitioned to a librarian role, which he pursued until the age of 80, even after retirement. Noteworthy literary works, like the Oyudonojo Diary, emerged during his tenure as a teacher.

In 2011, marking his centenary, former students arranged a heartwarming reunion to honour him. Even at 110, he maintained connections with students, exchanging New Year’s cards annually.

Sonobe’s lifelong love for reading, especially on politics and health, defined him. He diligently followed health programmes, incorporating advocated practices into his daily life.

Sonobe’s death was announced after Guinness World Records said Wednesday that Juan Vicente Perez, the world’s oldest man, had died at 114 in Venezuela. Sonobe was expected to be the next titleholder.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

______________________________________________________________

FOLLOW INDEPENDENT PRESS:

WhatsApp CHANNEL
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAtNxX8fewmiFmN7N22