Tomiko Itooka died on December 29 at a care home in Ashiya, Hyogo prefecture, in central Japan.
Tomiko Itooka, the world’s oldest person according to Guinness World Records, passed away at the remarkable age of 116.
Yoshitsugu Nagata, overseeing elderly policies, confirmed that Itooka passed away on December 29 at a care facility in Ashiya, Hyogo prefecture, located in central Japan.
Born on May 23, 1908, Itooka’s favorite treats were bananas and the popular yoghurt-flavored drink from Japan, Calpis. Last year, she became the oldest person alive after the passing of 117-year-old Maria Branyas, as per the Gerontology Research Group.
Upon learning that she had achieved the top spot in the World Supercentenarian Rankings List, Itooka simply responded with a humble “Thank you.”
Her last birthday was commemorated with beautiful flowers, a cake, and a special card from the mayor.
“Ms Itooka inspired us with her long and fulfilling life,” commented Ashiya’s mayor, Ryosuke Takashima, aged 27. “We are grateful for all she has given us.”
Hailing from Osaka, Itooka was an active volleyball player in high school and was known for her lively spirit, as stated by Nagata. She even conquered the 3,067-meter (10,062-ft) Mount Ontake twice.
Married at the age of 20, Itooka raised two daughters and two sons, according to Guinness World Records.
During World War II, she took charge of her husband’s textile factory office. After her husband’s passing in 1979, she resided alone in Nara.
She leaves behind one son, one daughter, and five grandchildren. A private funeral service was held with close family and friends, as reported by Nagata.
Itooka not only witnessed world wars and pandemics but also significant technological advancements throughout her lifetime.
While women in Japan generally experience long lives, the country is currently grappling with a pressing demographic crisis due to the increasing elderly population, leading to escalating medical and welfare expenses with a dwindling workforce to support it.
As indicated by the Gerontology Research Group, the title of the world’s oldest person now belongs to 116-year-old Brazilian nun Inah Canabarro Lucas, born merely 16 days after Itooka.
