YMCA Japan bids farewell to Mr. Susumu Iguchi, Honorary Secretary of the National Council of YMCAs of Japan

Mr. Susumu Iguchi, Honorary Secretary of the National Council of YMCAs of Japan, passed away on January 6, 2026 at the age of 87.

Inspired by his father, Mr. Yasuo Iguchi who served as General Secretary of the Hiroshima YMCA and in other key roles at the YMCA of Japan, Mr.Susumu Iguchi became involved with the Student YMCA during his university years. After graduating, he began his professional career at the Tokyo YMCA.

Distinguished by his sincere and gentle character, Mr. Inuchi utilized his exceptional English proficiency to lead the YMCA’s English education departments.  He served as the inaugural General Secretary of the Utsunomiya YMCA (now Tochigi YMCA). Following his tenure at the National Council, he assumed the significant responsibility of General Secretary of the Tokyo YMCA during the challenging economic climate of the 1990s.

From 1998 to 2004, he served as the General Secretary of the National Council of YMCAs of Japan. During his term, he successfully oversaw the relocation to the new NCYJ’s office and led the commemorative projects for the 100th anniversary of the National Council’s formation. His legacy continues through his son, Mr. Shin Inuchi, who currently serves as a Secretary at the Tokyo YMCA.

Beyond his work in Japan, Mr. Iguchi was widely recognized for his extensive contributions to international exchange programs. We express our deepest gratitude for the numerous tributes received from the global YMCA community, including messages from Mr. Nam Boo-Won, General Secretary of the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs, and many colleagues from across the world.

By Japan YMCA