On January 2, 2026, our beloved husband, father, and friend Alastair Peter Maxwell Lamond passed away suddenly in Himeji, Japan. His departure came far too soon, leaving a profound sense of loss for everyone who knew and loved him.

Alastair was a man of warmth, kindness, and quiet generosity. He approached life with curiosity, humor, and a deep devotion to his family. Whether sharing a thoughtful conversation, offering help, or simply bringing lightness into a room, he had a way of making others feel seen and valued. His gentle spirit touched friends, colleagues, and communities across countries and cultures.

A Life of Professional Dedication

Over more than three decades in education, publishing, and international business, Alastair built a distinguished career defined by integrity, collaboration, and a deep belief in the power of learning. He began as a teacher, and that early commitment to communication and opportunity shaped his entire professional journey.

He held leadership roles with major educational publishers and organizations, including Thomson Learning, Pearson Longman Japan, Macmillan LanguageHouse, and Cambridge Assessment English. His work connected him with educators and institutions across Japan and around the world, where he was known for his professionalism and genuine care for the people he worked with.

From 2009 to 2018, Alastair served as Sales Director at englishbooks.jp. He later became General Manager at Mangosteems, then a Freelance Consultant, always approaching new challenges with openness. Most recently, he held senior leadership roles as Chief Revenue Officer at Maxwell Education Group and Senior Consultant with Kinseido ELT. His colleagues remember him not only for his expertise, but for the kindness and humanity he brought to every partnership.

A Life Well Lived

Beyond his professional life, Alastair lived according to his own beliefs. He was always drawn to new challenges and never felt the need to stay in one place for too long. From Tokyo, we moved to Hayama to focus on family life, and later he began expanding his vision in Niigata.

There, he became deeply interested in sharing regional Japanese traditions, while also exploring ideas such as creating dog-friendly Airbnb stays—spaces designed to connect culture, everyday life, and people.

Even when the fuel was running low, he would smile and call it an adventure. That mindset—seeing uncertainty as possibility—defined not only his career, but the way he lived his life.

Honoring His Values Through Giving

In the wake of this sudden loss, many have asked how they might honor Alastair’s memory. As he believed deeply in access to education and equal opportunity for children, all contributions from this campaign will be donated to the Chance for Children Foundation (CFC). This organization is dedicated to ensuring that children in need in Japan have the educational opportunities they deserve—reflecting Alastair’s lifelong commitment to learning and his deep connection to Japan.

Participation in this fundraiser is entirely optional. The kindness already shown through messages and condolences has been deeply felt, and we completely understand if you prefer not to contribute further. This campaign simply offers a way for those who wish to honor Alastair’s values to do so in a meaningful way.

For contributors within Japan, CFC will issue tax receipts for your 2026 income tax returns as a registered not-for-profit organization.

With Gratitude

A service and cremation were held in Himeji, where Alastair spent his final days. Surrounded by love, we honored his wish for a farewell filled with color, warmth, and remembrance. A celebration of his life will be held in the Zushi–Hayama area at a later date, so that friends may gather to remember him.

Every message and act of support means more than words can express. Your kindness helps carry forward Alastair’s spirit of generosity and ensures that his belief in the power of education continues to make a difference.

With love and gratitude,

Kanako and Kai Lamond

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About donations

There are two options—Monthly and Single—but please make a Single donation. This page is only available until April 30, so if you choose Monthly, Chance for Children will cancel it on our end after that date.

About Chance for Children

Chance for Children (CFC) is a Japan-based nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding educational access for children living in poverty. Its mission is to ensure that every child can participate in out-of-school learning opportunities that reflect their individual interests and needs.

Learn more https://cfc.or.jp/english