Tomiko Itooka

Quick Facts: Who was Tomiko Itooka?

Subject:

Tomiko Itooka

Known for:

Japanese supercentenarian who lived to 116 years, known for her resilience.

Born:

1908-05-23

Died:

2024-12-29

Century / Era:

1908s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Tomiko Itooka (née Yano; Japanese: 糸岡 富子, romanized: Itooka Tomiko; 23 May 1908 – 29 December 2024) was a Japanese supercentenarian who was recognized as the world's oldest verified living person in September 2024. She managed her family's textile business during World War II and lived to the age of 116 years and 220 days. Tomiko Itooka (née Yano) was born on 23 May 1908, in Osaka, Empire of Japan. She was one of three children in a family that operated a clothing store. She grew up in prewar Japan, a period marked by modernization and imperial expansion.

Career & Major Achievements

During her high school years, she participated in volleyball. Itooka married Kenji Itooka, the owner of a textile company. During World War II, she took on the responsibility of managing the family business in Japan while her husband worked at a factory in Korea, then under Japanese colonial rule. According to the Gerontology Research Group, she oversaw business operations while raising her children during this period. After the war, she continued to support the family business.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Itooka had four children. In 1979, her husband died. Following his death, Itooka relocated to Ashiya, Hyōgo. In her later years, she maintained an active lifestyle. In her 70s, she climbed Mount Nijō, and summited Mount Ontake twice.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1908 (1908-05-23): Birth of Tomiko Itooka — Japanese supercentenarian who lived to 116 years, known for her resilience.
2. 2024 (2024-12-29): Passing & Historical Legacy — Tomiko Itooka passed away on 2024-12-29, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Tomiko Itooka

True or False: “Tomiko Itooka attributed her longevity partly to a specific diet consisting of bananas and Calpis.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): The provided text explicitly states that she attributed her longevity to eating bananas and drinking Calpis.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Tomiko Itooka