Yoshihiro "Joe"  Kato, age 74, of Rutherfordton, NC, died Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at Rutherford Regional Medical Center in Rutherfordton, NC. Joe was a native of Japan.  He was employed by American Miso Company in Green Hill and was the Miso Master.

He is survived by his companion and care giver Mayumi Nishimura.    He considered his fellow worker at American Miso as his family.

A gathering of friends and family will be held Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at McMahan's Funeral Home from 5:00 P M to 6:00 P M. McMahan's Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.