Japanese Oldest Man, Sonobe  Dies At 112

Sonobe was born on November 6, 1911. He became the country’s oldest man after the death of his predecessor at 111 in November 2022.

Gisaburo Sonobe, a 112-year-old recognised as Japan’s oldest man, died on March 31, 2024 in Chiba Prefecture near Tokyo, Japanese news agency Kyodo News quoted the local authorities as saying on Thursday.

Sonobe was born on November 6, 1911. He became the country’s oldest man after the death of his predecessor at 111 in November 2022.

According to Gulf News, Sonobe dedicated decades to educating the youth, teaching Japanese language and society at both junior and senior high schools.

After his teaching career, he transitioned to a librarian role, which he pursued until the age of 80, even after retirement. Noteworthy literary works, like the Oyudonojo Diary, emerged during his tenure as a teacher.

In 2011, marking his centenary, former students arranged a heartwarming reunion to honour him. Even at 110, he maintained connections with students, exchanging New Year’s cards annually.

Sonobe’s lifelong love for reading, especially on politics and health, defined him. He diligently followed health programmes, incorporating advocated practices into his daily life.

Sonobe’s death was announced after Guinness World Records said Wednesday that Juan Vicente Perez, the world’s oldest man, had died at 114 in Venezuela. Sonobe was expected to be the next titleholder.