WATARU KAKIUCHI - FAMILY ASSISTANCE FUNDRAISER

Hi, my name is Justin Ault. I'm the proprietor of Hapa Izakaya in the Yaletown neighbourhood of Vancouver. We first opened 21 years ago and over the years, I've been blessed to have worked with hundreds of amazing people. One of the best was Wataru Kakiuchi. As talented as he was as a cook, he was an even better person. Warm, funny, full of energy, a talented musician, empathetic and just an all around wonderful human being - he was a beauty.

In the early morning hours of Wednesday, June 5th, Wataru's precious life was cut short by a random act of violence. He was 32 years old and still had so much living to do. His parents were robbed of their only child and his friends and the people who loved him lost a unique man who meant so much to them. We are sad, devastated and angry. His parents have been remarkably strong while dealing with this tragedy; more strength than I think I could possibly have under similar circumstances.

The idea of organizing a Go Fund Me came from discussions with my staff as we didn't feel it was remotely fair for his parents to have to bear the financial repercussions of the murder of their son. Flights from Japan, accommodations, meals, transportation, lost wages and funeral expenses have and will add up to a significant burden. After receiving Wataru's parent's consent (Japanese people are generally very reluctant to "bother" other people...), the Go Fund Me you are looking at now was created.

Please do not feel any obligation to contribute. We understand that not everyone is in the position to do so. Also, no amount is too small or unappreciated. So many people have reached out asking if there was a way of assisting his parents that even $5 will accumulate very quickly. I've never been part of a Go Fund Me and honestly, I hope I never again need to be in this position.

On behalf of Wataru's parents, friends and colleagues, we thank you very much for any amount you're comfortable with contributing.