JCPC 08.051

Reverend Yoshio Ono (1904-1984) was born in Tokyo, but came to Canada to attend Theological College in BC. He joined the Cumberland Japanese Mission of the United Church of Canada. He arrived at Hastings Park on April 15, 1942 with the community members from Cumberland, Royston, Courtenay and Union Bay. He volunteered to become the Director of the Boy’s Dormitory, and also worked as a representative for the United Church of Canada, and for the Red Cross. He communicated with the Japanese Liaison Committee and actively petitioned for better conditions within Hastings Park, and for ethical considerations towards the community, especially for keeping families intact.

On August 21, 1942, he moved to Tashme to help coordinate the arrival of community members. In 1943, he left the camp and moved east. Reverend Ono married Fumiko Matsubuchi, originally from Cumberland, on December 1, 1945 and later moved to Montreal.

Reverend Ono kept a fascinating diary of his daily work and life at Hastings Park from June 17 – August 18, 1942. His dedication and compassion towards the community are apparent throughout the diary.

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