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In Memoriam Takeshi Okano
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Emeritus Takeshi Okano of the University of Tokyo, a distinguished member of this Academy, on March 14, 2026, at the age of 87. We extend our heartfelt condolences and sincere prayers for his peaceful repose.
Professor Okano graduated from the Department of Forest Products, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tokyo, in 1963, and devoted his academic career there, rising from Research Associate to Professor in the Wood Physics Laboratory and finally the Biomaterial Laboratory, until his retirement in 1999. A pioneer in wood physics and cellulose science, his research elucidated the structure of cellulose, the fundamental determinant of wood's mechanical and physical properties. His collaboration with Professor A. Sarko at Syracuse University was especially influential: their studies on the crystalline transformation of alkali cellulose gained international recognition and became a landmark contribution to resolving the long-standing parallel–antiparallel problem in cellulose crystallography. Through his lectures and mentorship, he trained many researchers who later advanced cellulose science internationally. He also served as President of both the Japan Wood Research Society and the Cellulose Society of Japan, contributing significantly to the field.
Even after retiring, Professor Okano remained active for nearly two decades in promoting sustainable use of wood and bioresources through human resource development, public outreach, and education. He was admired not only for his intellectual achievements but also his personal character — his lifelong commitment to learning, openness to new challenges, and warm encouragement of younger generations left a lasting impression on all who worked with him.
Through his pioneering research, dedication to education, and leadership, Professor Okano made an enduring contribution to cellulose science and its international standing. We express our profound gratitude for his legacy and extend our deepest respect and sincere prayers for his eternal peace.
