John Aytekin Ozdemir

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John Ozdemir, who passed away on February 12, 2025, at his residence in Oviedo, Florida, at the age of 31.

Born on May 25, 1993, in Brooklyn, New York, John was the beloved son of Aytekin and Burcu Ozdemir. His family moved to Little Rock, Arkansas, shortly after his birth, where he was raised alongside his younger brother, Levent Ozdemir.

A lifelong scholar and dedicated leader, John distinguished himself early on as a National Merit Scholar in high school, earning a full-ride scholarship to the University of Arkansas. He was an active and talented leader, serving as the captain of both the Model UN and Debate Team. After completing his undergraduate studies, John went on to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of Arkansas, where he also met his future wife, Yoshie Sakamaki. Together, they shared a passion for science and continued to support each other’s academic and personal growth.

John’s professional career was marked by his groundbreaking work in rocket science. He made significant contributions at Aerojet in Camden, Arkansas, where his work on improving Javelin missile technology earned national recognition. His contributions were especially impactful in aiding Ukraine’s defense against the Russian invasion, a testament to his commitment to making the world a safer place.

In his personal life, John was a man of many passions. He loved tennis, fishing, hunting, and working on classic cars. He found great joy in spending time at his lake house in Hot Springs, Arkansas, boating with his family, and immersing himself in nature. A talented musician, John played the guitar, piano, and saxophone, often filling his home with music. He was a devoted family man who cherished every moment with his wife, Yoshie, and their beloved daughter, Hannah. His family meant the world to him, and he was also deeply devoted to his parents and younger brother.

John's life was defined by his dedication to living with joy and gratitude. This quote, by Daisaku Ikeda, perfectly captured his approach to life: “To die happily is extremely difficult. And since death is the final settlement of accounts for one's life, that is when our true self comes to the fore. We practice faith to live happily and to die happily. One who has faith in the Mystic Law will not die unhappily” (9/26/96). Until his final moments, John lived with a sense of peace, surrounded by the love of his family.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Yoshie Sakamaki Ozdemir; their daughter, Hannah Sakamaki Ozdemir; his parents, Dr. Aytekin Ozdemir and Dr. Burcu Ozdemir; and his younger brother, Levent Ozdemir. He will always be remembered as a devoted husband, father, son, and brother.

A memorial service was held on February 16, 2025, at Lankford Funeral Home in DeLand, Florida. He was honored by the presence of his wife, Yoshie Sakamaki Ozdemir; daughter, Hannah Sakamaki Ozdemir; Parents; Dr. Aytekin Ozdemir and Dr. Burcu Ozdemir and younger brother Levent Ozdemir, along with close family and friends. A second memorial was held on March 9, 2025, with SGI members at the Orlando Buddhist Center in Florida.

John’s legacy will live on through his family, his groundbreaking work, and the many lives he touched with his kindness, intelligence, and unwavering love. May he rest in peace.