Remembering Glen Yoshiaki Gondo: A Legacy of Service and Generosity
Glen Yoshiaki Gondo, a beloved figure in Houston’s Asian and business communities, has passed away at the age of 75 after a brief battle with cancer. Gondo was widely recognized for his sushi catering business and his unwavering dedication to Asian American causes. Throughout his life, he embodied the values of dignity, respect, and the pursuit of the American dream.
Born in 1948, Gondo’s worldview was profoundly influenced by his family’s experience of being interned during World War II. This personal history instilled in him a deep appreciation for the importance of treating all Americans, regardless of their background, with respect and fairness. He believed that everyone should have an equal opportunity to achieve success.
After the war, Gondo’s family established several businesses, including the first Japanese restaurant in Houston, Tokyo Gardens. This establishment brought Gondo to Houston, where he would leave an indelible mark. Following the closure of the family restaurant, Gondo shifted his focus to catering, founding Tokyo Gardens Catering and Sushic, LLC. These ventures have since expanded to operate numerous sushi kiosks in H-E-B grocery stores across the region. Gondo’s sushi can also be enjoyed in Houston hotels, schools, and even on flights bound for Tokyo from Houston.
While building his business empire, Glen Gondo actively engaged with the Houston community. He founded the Houston Japan Festival, an annual two-day event held at Hermann Park that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, he served on various boards, including the Japan American Society of Houston and Asia Society Texas. In recognition of his contributions to fostering cultural understanding between Japan and the United States, Gondo was honored by the Japanese government in 2013 with the Spring Imperial Decoration.
Despite his achievements, Gondo remained humble and focused on uplifting future generations. He often shared the story of founding Houston’s first Asian Republicans group, which he later balanced by helping establish an Asian Democrats group. His aim was not to promote a particular political ideology but to ensure that everyone had a voice, regardless of their differing opinions. When thanked for his donations to various causes, Gondo would simply ask that people stand up for Asian Americans, emphasizing the importance of advocacy and representation.
Gondo’s most recent project involved raising funds for the proposed National Asian Pacific American History Museum in Washington, D.C. This endeavor exemplified his commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Asian Pacific Americans, providing future generations with a deeper understanding of their contributions to American history.
Beyond his remarkable achievements, Glen Gondo cherished his family. He often recounted the heartwarming story of meeting his wife, Kathy, in sixth grade. In 2023, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Gondo is survived by his son, Robert, and daughter-in-law, Jaewon.
The passing of Glen Yoshiaki Gondo leaves a void in Houston’s Asian and business communities. His legacy of service, generosity, and commitment to social causes will continue to inspire future leaders. Gondo’s impact extends far beyond his successful business ventures; it resides in the lives he touched and the positive change he brought to Houston and beyond. As we reflect on his life, let us remember his unwavering dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
