Komori America Mourns the Loss of Industry Leader Kosh Miyao
Komori America announces with profound sadness the passing of Kosh Miyao, a pillar of the graphic arts community and a revered leader whose contributions shaped Komori America and influenced the wider printing industry. Kosh passed away on Friday, January 16th, surrounded by his family.
Kosh began his career with Komori America in 1986, starting in service and parts, where he quickly developed a deep, hands-on understanding of Komori equipment. This foundation gave him an exceptional technical knowledge base that would define his career and make him an invaluable resource to employees, customers, and partners throughout the printing industry.
Kosh Miyao
Over the next three decades, Kosh served in numerous leadership roles across the organization, including senior vice presidential positions. His unique blend of technical expertise, business insight, and relationship-building skills earned him a reputation as someone who could resolve complex challenges and move initiatives forward with clarity and confidence.
Kosh was widely respected for fostering strong relationships between Komori America and Komori’s teams in Japan. He understood not only the technology, but also the people behind it. His ability to identify the right individuals within the organization and facilitate collaboration across cultures allowed issues to be addressed efficiently and effectively. As a result, Kosh became known throughout the company and the industry as a person who could get things done.
In 2008, Kosh was named President and Chief Operating Officer of Komori America. In this role, he guided the company with steady leadership during periods of industry change, technological advancement, and evolving customer demands. He was a strong advocate for the North American market, deeply understanding the challenges faced by a Japanese manufacturer operating in the United States. His leadership played a critical role in strengthening Komori’s presence, reputation, and customer relationships across the region.
In 2017, Kosh was promoted to Vice Chairman, and in April 2018, he transitioned into a consultant role, continuing to support Komori America’s Security and Seria/PE divisions. Even in this capacity, his insight, experience, and counsel remained instrumental to ongoing strategic efforts.
Those who worked closely with Kosh remember him as smart, humble, and good-natured. His quick wit, memorable sense of humor, and genuine respect for others made him well liked by employees and customers alike. Throughout his more than 30 years with Komori America, he left a lasting impression not only through his leadership, but through the way he treated people.
Kei Tanaka and Kosh Miyao
Beyond his professional life, Kosh was devoted to his family and enjoyed spending time fishing, a pastime that reflected his patience, focus, and appreciation for life’s quieter moments.
Kosh Miyao’s influence on Komori America and the printing industry will endure for years to come. His leadership, advocacy, and commitment to excellence helped shape the organization and strengthened the bond between Komori, its customers, and its global teams.
Komori America extends its deepest condolences to Kosh’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.
Bob Rath and Kosh Miyao making funny faces on a fishing trip in Alaska.
“Kosh’s legacy is woven into the fabric of our company and the industry he helped propel forward,” said Doug Schardt “His leadership set a standard for commitment, integrity, and innovation that will continue to influence our work for many years to come.”
The preceding press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with Printing Impressions. The views expressed within may not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of the staff of Printing Impressions.
