PAT MORITA – KIDNEY FAILURE
Pat Morita will always have a special place in our hearts as the adorable Mr. Miyagi from The Karate Kid film series. With credit to his endearing performances in the films, he earned a Best Supporting Actor nomination from the Academy Awards. But, this isn’t the only recognition he has received for his work. The actor was among the first Asian American leads on TV, starring in popular programs such as Ohara and Mr. T and Tina.
Pat struggled through a number of health issues as a child, but overcame it all and made a success of himself. He passed away in 2005 at 73 years old.