Oldest man to have lived dies at 116

The world’s oldest person has died at the age of 116

By Nicole Hamer |

13:10 12 June 2013

The oldest man to have ever lived has died at 116 years of age. Jiroemon Kimura, of Japan, is recognised by the Guinness World Records as being the oldest man known to have lived, as well as the world’s oldest person.

Officials confirmed the sad news of Mr. Kimura’s death, saying that he passed away in hospital in Kyotango, Kyoto, Japan, on Wednesday, 12th June, 2013.

Mr. Kimura gained the Guinness World Records title for being the oldest person last year. This relates to December, 2012, after the previous oldest person in the world died.

Speaking on his 115th birthday, the Japanese said he couldn’t explain the reason for his long life.

Mr. Kimura said: “Maybe it's all thanks to the sun above me.”

He added: “I am always looking up towards the sky, that is how I am.”

Now, Misao Okawa, from Japan, is thought to be the oldest person in the world. She is 115 years old.

According to reports Mr. Kimura leaves behind 14 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and also a number of great-great-grandchildren.

He was born on 19 April 1897.