Bandai Namco announced some unfortunate news: Masaya Nakamura, the original founder of Namco, has died at the age of 91.

His death was made public today, while he actually passed on January 22nd. He founded Nakamura Manufacturing back in 1955, which later became known as Bandai Namco Entertainment.

At Mr. Nakamura’s request, both the wake and funeral were only held privately with his immediate family and relatives – the news of his death was also postponed until after the aforementioned events. A “Farewell Gathering” is planned at a later time, to celebrate Nakamura and his life.

Born on December 24th, 1925, Nakamura later graduated from Yokohama National University in 1948 and founded Nakamura Manufacturing in 1955. After the company was rebranded to Namco in 1977, he became the president of Namco in 2002.

Once Namco merged with Bandai, he became president of Bandai Namco Games in 2006. Prior to his death, he also saw a role as honorary member of the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and even a senior advisor to the Japan Amusement Machine and Marketing Association.

Our deepest condolences go out to the Mr. Nakamura’s family, and we thank him for all the wonderful gaming memories his company has brought throughout the decades. What are some of your favorite games from Bandai Namco? Sound off in the comments below!