Gisaburo Sonobe
- Lifespan: (06.11.1911 – 31.03.2024)
- Age: 112 years, 146 days
- Birthplace: Chiba Prefecture, Japan
- Last residence: Tateyama, Chiba Prefecture, Japan
- Application date: 16.09.2022
- Validation date: 19.09.2023
- Validation source: MHLW Japan/Robert Young/Waclaw Jan Kroczek
Biography
Gisaburo Sonobe was born in Chiba Prefecture, Japan on 6 November 1911. For many years, Sonobe dedicated himself to educating the younger generation, teaching Japanese language and society at both junior and senior high schools. Following his teaching career, he transitioned to a role as a librarian, a profession he pursued until the age of 80, even after retirement. Notably, during his time as a teacher, he authored literary works such as the Oyudonojo Diary. In 2011, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, former students organized a heartwarming reunion to congratulate him. Even as he reached the age of 110, he continued to maintain connections with his students, exchanging New Year’s cards with them.
A lifelong passion for reading has been a constant in Sonobe’s life. He particularly enjoys delving into books on politics and health. He follows TV health programs and diligently incorporates the health practices advocated on television into his daily routine. His attention to maintaining a well-balanced diet, with a special fondness for potatoes and vegetables rich in calcium, is notable. Impressively, he has always preserved his natural teeth and has never required false ones.
Following the death of 109-year-old Kingo Yumoto on 2 December 2019, he became the oldest known living man in Chiba Prefecture.
In November 2021, Sonobe celebrated his 110th birthday, becoming a supercentenarian, a testament to his remarkable longevity.
Following the death of 111-year-old Shigeru Nakamura of Hiroshima Prefecture on 15 November 2022, Sonobe became the oldest known living man in Japan.
He was the last known surviving Japanese man born in 1911, the last surviving Japanese man born in Meiji era.
Gisaburo Sonobe died in Tateyama, Chiba Prefecture, Japan on 31 March 2024 at the age of 112 years, 146 days.
Longevity recognition
- Doyen of Japan (15.11.2022 – 31.03.2024)
Validation
Sonobe’s age was verified by MHLW Japan, Robert Young and Waclaw Jan Kroczek, and validated by the GRG on 19 September 2023.
