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Obituaries: Year 2007, Last Names S-Z

SAIKI, SUSUMU ROBERT, 85, passed away on May 5, 2007 at the South San Francisco Kaiser Hospital. He was born on July 2, 1921 in Stockton, Calif. He is survived by his wife Kinko, daughter Julie (Douglas) Nakatani, brother Tetsuo Saiki and many nephews and nieces. Mr. Saiki was a member of the Soko Hiroshima Nikkei Jin Kai, Ikenobo Ikebana Society of N.C., Kokusei Ryu Shigin S.F. Shibu, Hokka Kokuseiryu Shigin Rengo Kai, Bei Ka Hoku Kokusei Ryu Shigin Renmei, N.C. Cherry Blossom Festival Committee, Ikebana International, Ikebana Teacher’s Federation, S.F. Japan Club, Japanese Benevolent Society of CA, S.F. Bonsai Club, Hokkai Nichi Bei Kai, Women’s Assoc. of S.F. Buddhist Church and the Buddhist Church of San Francisco. A funeral will be held on Friday, May 11 at 1 p.m. at the Buddhist Church of S.F., 1881 Pine St. in San Francisco. Susumu Robert Saiki

Posted May 7, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly May 10-16, 2007.

SAKAI, TOSHIE "TOOTS" NISHITA. Born on April 5, 1926 in Castroville, California, passed away at her home on January 16, 2007, at the age of 80. She is survived by her children, Jeffery and his wife Kathleen Sakai of Chula Vista, Duane Sakai of San Jose and Donna and her husband Martin Newton of Australia, granddaughters, Sandra and Karen Sakai of Chula Vista, brothers Satoru Nishita of Richmond, and Hiroshi Nishita of Gardena, and sisters, Sadae Suezaki of Lafayette , Kikue Hibino of Salinas and many nieces and nephews. Toots was preceded in death by her husband, Mineo Min Sakai. Funeral Services on Sunday, Jan. 28, 4:30PM in Gilroy, Habing Family Funeral Home. Toshie Sakai

Posted Jan. 23, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Jan. 25-31, 2007.

SASAKI, ICHIRO
JANUARY 14, 1924 - MARCH 19, 2007
In loving memory of Ichiro Sasaki, who passed away at home at the age of 83 on March 19, 2007. Ichiro graduated from the University of California School of Architecture, and before retiring in June, 1990, worked as an architect for the East Bay Regional Park District. He was a former member of the Nikkei Lions Club and the J-Town Jazz Band. He leaves his loving wife of 57 years, Helen Fumiko, sons, Gary, Glenn and Greg; sisters Emiko Shinagawa and Sachiko Ando; and grandchildren, Neil, Kenji, David, Crystal, Jacqueline and Nicholas. A family memorial service was held at the Sunset View Mausoleum on March 31, 2007. Ichiro Sasaki

Posted May 3, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly May 3-9, 2007.

SHINODA, TAKIKO "TAKI", at her residence on March 30, 2007. Devoted wife of the late Min Shinoda. Loving mother of Janet McElhaney, and the late Michael Shinoda and the late Joyce Shinoda. Dear grandmother of Brian and Brent McElhaney. Great-grandmother of Gabriel and Ashley McElhaney. Dear sister of Esocko Kimura. Mother-in-law of Cheryl Shinoda. A native of San Francisco. Age 84 years. Services will be held at San Lorenzo Japanese Christian Church, 615 Lewelling Blvd., Tuesday, April 10, 2007 at 10:00 A.M. Interment will be private. In lieu of flower donations to 55+ Group c/o San Lorenzo Japanese Christian Church preferred.
SANTOS-ROBINSON MORTUARY, SAN LEANDRO (510) 483-0123, www.santos-robinson.com Takiko Shinoda

Posted April 23, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly April 5-11, 2007.

SUGIYAMA, RONALD YUJI. Born January 9, 1943 in the Tule Lake Internment Camp, Ron passed away peacefully after a long illness in San Francisco on June 15, 2007. He is survived by his mother Grace Sugiyama, his father Dr. Henry I. Sugiyama, both of Sacramento, brothers Alan Sugiyama of Vallejo and Jon Sugiyama of Sacramento. Ron relocated from Sacramento to San Francisco where he worked for the Japanese Community Youth Center for many years before gaining employment at The UCSF Medical Center where he remained employed until his death. Ron enjoyed travel, motorcycle racing and mentoring youths. Ron was happiest when he was able to assist others. Ron performed volunteer work within the Japanese Community, promoting youth leadership and self-esteem through photography classes and "Ropes Course" activities, He also served on the San Francisco Delinquency Prevention Commission. Ron’s gruff exterior concealed a warm heart that those closest to him appreciated. He will be missed. An informal celebration of Ron’s life will be held for the benefit of friends and colleagues at the JCCCNC, Japanese Cultural Community Center of Northern California, 1840 Sutter St., on Sunday afternoon, August 26th between 1-4 pm. Ronald Sugiyama

Posted August 15, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly August 16-22, 2007.

SUYAMA, GEORGE SADAICHI, 93, quietly passed away June 30, 2007. Predeceased by wife Matsuko, he is survived by son Ken, daughter-in-law Karen, granddaughter Kristen and daughter Pat. All are welcome to the Saturday, July 14, 11 a.m. funeral services at Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church (SACBC), 32975 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City, CA 94587. Memorial donations to SACBC Senior Home, flowers, and condolences may be sent to SACBC. George Suyama

Posted July 16, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly July 12-18, 2007.

SUYEHIRO, JAMES MASATO, 83, Passed away on September 22, 2007 in Martinez, California. He was born on January 19, 1924 in Chico and lived in San Francisco. James is survived by his daughters Karen Sun, Paula Suyehiro, Donna Gibbs, son Wayne Suyehiro, and grandchildren Kimberly and Gregory Sun, Matthew and Chad Gibbs, and Michael Suyehiro. He served in WWII and retired from Civil Service. His wife April preceded him in death in 2006. A memorial service will be held for him on Saturday, Oct 6 at 11:00 a.m. at Wilson & Kratzer chapel of San Ramon Valley, 825 Hartz Way in Danville. James Suyehiro

Posted October 4, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly October 4-10, 2007.

SUYEYASU, AIKO passed away peacefully in her home on January 25th 2007. She is survived by her daughters Linda Iwamoto, Sharon Suyeyasu, Sandra Suyeyasu-Cox (Dave) and Sherrie Hancock (Kevin). Aiko was preceded in death by her husband William Shinichi Suyeyasu and her son Lane Kazuo Suyeyasu. She was a devoted grandmother to Staci and Scott Iwamoto, Nicky and Kimmi Cox and Tori and Trey Hancock. Aiko was born in San Francisco and has been a resident of Palo Alto for the past 46 years. She was an active member of the Palo Alto Buddhist Temple, Yuwakai and the Palo Alto Buddhist Women’s Association. During her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting, bunka, bingo and travel. A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, February 2nd at the Palo Alto Buddhist Temple, 2751 Louis Road, Palo Alto. The Suyeyasu family appreciates donations in her memory be made to Kaiser Hospice, 10080 N. Wolfe Road Suite SW3-160, Cupertino, CA. 95014 or to the Palo Alto Buddhist Temple. Aiko Suyeyasu

Posted Jan. 30, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Feb. 1-7, 2007.

SUZUKI, KENJI, 69, died peacefully surrounded by family on January 16, 2007. He was born in San Francisco, interned at Topaz Relocation Camp and after the war served four years in the Marines. The Suzuki family lived in Salt Lake City, Utah, for 50 years before returning to the Bay Area. Kenji enjoyed walking for health and attending Japantown sport functions. He had a strong and determined will underneath a gentle, unassuming nature. Beloved son of Masako Suzuki and Kiyoji Suzuki (deceased); loving brother of June Fujita (deceased) and Helen (Kenneth) Sato; cherished uncle to Gregg (Michelle) Fujita, Neal (Tammy Medress) Fujita, Lisa (Dale) Fujita-Binkley, Stephanie Sato (Brandon Carbullido) and Jennifer Sato; and grand-uncle to Ben and Maya Fujita and Daniel Binkley. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 24 at 3 p.m. at Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave. in Oakland, CA 94611. Donations in his memory may be made to Kimochi, Inc., 1715 Buchanan St., San Francisco, CA 94115. Kenji Suzuki

Posted Jan. 19, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Jan. 25-31, 2007.

TANAKA, MARI passed away peacefully on August 22, 2007 after a lengthy illness. She was born on March 7, 1922 in Los Angeles to Rev. Yoshimasa and Umeko Shigekawa and was the fourth of seven children. Mari met Bill Tanaka while interned in Poston, Arizona during WWII. They were married and their oldest son, Ronald, was born during their internment. They eventually returned to California where their other children, Mark, Deborah and Becke, were born. Bill and Mari settled in Madera where they lived for 50 years before moving to Caring Heart Residential Living in 2005. They had just celebrated their 64th year of marriage in July. Mari was a loving and devoted mother to her four children, Ronald, Mark, Deborah and Becke, and her greatest joys were her grandchildren, Shino, Yoi and Lukas, and great-grandson, Cullen. Mari touched the lives of everyone she met through her, kindness, gentle heart, generosity and great hugs whether she was with her large extended family, at work at Madera Community Hospital, at church at the Clovis Free Methodist Church or at home. Mari spent numerous hours baking her specialties and knitting her afghans for the pure enjoyment of family and friends. Mari started every morning with her Bible and a prayer, and her faith remained a strong and guiding force throughout her life. The family is very grateful to Dr. Greg Matsubara of Kaiser, the staff at Caring Heart Residential Living and Hinds Hospice for their loving and compassionate care. A memorial service will be held at the Clovis Free Methodist Church, 2165 Gettysburg Ave., Clovis, CA 93611, on Saturday, September 8, at 1 p.m. Remembrances in lieu of flowers may be made to the Clovis Free Methodist Church or to Hinds Hospice, 1616 W. Shaw, Ste. A-5, Fresno, CA 93711.
Jay Chapel, Madera, California
www.jaychapel.com Mari Tanaka

Posted September 6, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly September 6-12.

TANIMURA, STEVE, 75, passed away on April 24, 2007 at Seton Hospital in Daly City, Calif. He was born on December 4, 1931 in San Francisco. Mr. Tanimura is survived by his wife Lily, daughters Cindy (Tim) Dorsey and Pam Tanimura, sons Rick (Cathy) Tanimura and David Tanimura and other relatives. Services will be held at a later date. Steve Tanimura

Posted May 7, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly May 10-16, 2007.

TANJI, FUKUJI, 87, passed away on February 15, 2007 in La Habra, CA. Survived by children, Frank Tanji, Alice (Dick) Horio and Merry Jitosho; grandchildren, Stephanie Jitosho and Michael Jitosho; a sister-in-law; nieces and nephews. Fukuji was a gardener for over 40 years. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 31 at 10 a.m. at the Berkeley Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple, 1524 Oregon St., Berkeley, CA 94703. Fukuji Tanji

Posted March 20, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly March 22-28, 2007.

TERADA, MARY. Born on June 2, 1914, in San Jose, California and passed away on February 25, 2007at the age of 92. Beloved daughter of the late Torahiko/Tama Kawakami. Beloved wife of the late Teruyoshi Terada. Devoted Mother of Minoru (Heidi) Terada, Marilyn Terada, and Janis (Gene) Tanaka. Loving Grandmother to Tracy Terada, Martin Terada, Jennifer (Gary) Gacayan and Kirstin Tanaka. Great Grandmother to Kyle Tanaka - Gacayan. Dear sister of Wright (Grace) Kawakami, Masako Tekeda, Meiji Kawakami, Aiko Jio, Izumi Kawakami, Lloyd Kawakami, and Menlo (Aurora) Kawakami and the late Yuri (Archie) Uchiyama. She is survived by many loving nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a memorial donation to Yu-Ai Kai Senior Center 588 North 4th Street, San Jose, CA 95112. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 3rd at 11:30am at Wesley United Methodist Church at 566 North 5th Street, San Jose, CA 95112. Mary Terada

Posted March 1, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly March 1-7, 2007.

TANAKA, WILLIAM “BILL,” 87, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2007, after a lengthy illness. Bill was born in Fresno to Saichi and Fusa Tanaka and was the third of five children. Bill moved to Southern California to live with an aunt and uncle after being orphaned at the age of six. While attending Glendale High School, Bill was a member of the track team and was a Golden Gloves boxer. College was preempted by his relocation to an internment camp for four years during WWII. Bill met and married Mari Shigekawa while interned in Poston, Arizona, and their oldest son, Ronald, was born during this time. Bill and Mari eventually returned to California and settled in the Central Valley spending the last 50 years in Madera where Bill worked as a state-licensed Clinical Technician first at Dearborn Hospital and then at Madera Community Hospital until his retirement in 1990. He was also on-call 24/7 for the District Attorney’s office to draw blood on countless suspects and proudly served as a Reserve Deputy for the Madera Sheriff’s Department for 48 years. Bill loved his jobs and did them all with a ready smile, consummate skill and steadfast dedication. Bill will long be remembered for his kindness, generosity and enduring commitment to his family, friends and community and to his faith. He served as a constant inspiration by repeatedly turning adversity into triumph. And, he was never without a handful of candy or “words of wisdom” to share with those around him. Bill is preceded in death by his loving wife and partner of 64 years, Mari, son Ronald and brother, Hisashi. He is survived by his son, Mark Tanaka and his wife Portia; daughters Deborah Tanaka-Laude and her husband Richard and Becke Kaaz and her husband Kevin; grandchildren Shino Hand and her husband Ben, Yoi Tanaka and Lukas Kaaz; and great-grandson, Cullen Hand. He is also survived by his sisters Masako Tanaka, Kimiko Nakagawa and Irene Tambara and her husband Charles. The family is very grateful to Dr. Tin Kyaw (formerly of Kaiser Permanente), Bill’s “family” at Caring Heart Residential Living and the caregivers at Hinds Hospice for their loving and compassionate care and support. Bill will be remembered at a memorial service at The Cross Church, 4545 No. Palm, (Corner of North Palm & Gettysburg Avenues) Fresno, on Saturday, November 3, at 1 p.m. A fellowship reception will immediately follow. Remembrances in lieu of flowers may be made to the Clovis Free Methodist Church, 2165 Gettysburg Ave., Clovis, CA 93611 or to Hinds Hospice, 1616 W. Shaw, Ste. A-5, Fresno, CA 93711. Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Jay Chapel of Madera, where condolence messages may be left at www.jaychapel.com.illiam Tanaka

Posted November 1, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly November 1-7, 2007.

TERAURA, TOMIO
Jan 27, 1921 – May 21, 2007
A private family service was held for Tomio Teraura, 86, of Vacaville at McCune Garden Chapel with the Rev. Bob Oshita officiating. Burial was at the Sacramento Valley VA National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon. Mr. Teraura passed away suddenly on May 21, 2007, in Vacaville. He was born Jan. 27, 1921, in Vacaville. He was a fruit and nut farmer for 26+ years and worked for the City of Vacaville Parks Division for 10 years, retiring in 1985. He enjoyed baseball, gardening and Japanese language translation. He served in the U.S. Army, a World War II veteran. He completed military intelligence service language school and served as an interpreter in the Asiatic Pacific Theater. Mr. Teraura is survived by his wife of 51 years, Toyoko Teraura; daughter, Marjorie (Robert) Lloyd of Vallejo; son, Calvin Teraura of Vacaville; brother, Tadashi (Yoshiko) Teraura of Berkeley; two step grandchildren and and one step great-grandchild; nine nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kinsuke Teraura and Hana Teraura. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sacramento Valley VA National Cemetery Beautification Fund, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon 95620, Attn: Mr. Dean Moline. Tomio Teraura

Posted May 30, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly May 31 - June 6, 2007.

TOKUDA, HATSUKO, 74, passed away on January 19, 2007 at St. Mary's Hospital. She was born in Aichi-ken, Nagoya-shi. She is survived by her son, Andrew Hideki Tokuda. She was a member of Beikoku Karaoke Kayo Club, Nagisa Kai, S.F. Kanagawa Kenjinkai and P.L. Kyodan. A funeral will be held on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 2 p.m. at Ashley & McMullen Funeral Home, 4200 Geary Blvd. in San Francisco. Hatsuko Tokuda

Posted Jan. 23, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Jan. 25-31, 2007.

TOMA, TAKEYUKI “DICK,” 90, passed away on February 3, 2007 in San Jose. He was born in Fowler, California. He is survived by his wife Midori; son Byron (Sylvia) Toma; daughters Lynn Reiko (Steve Yamaguma) Toma and Norine (Craig) Sato; and grandchildren Bryce and Kelly Toma, Grant Yamaguma and Janine and Eric Sato. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, Feb. 11 at 5 p.m. at the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, 640 N. 5th St., San Jose. Dick Toma

Posted Feb. 8, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Feb. 8-14, 2007.

TOMITA, MARY YUKIKO, 91, a longtime resident of Lodi, passed away in Lodi on May 3, 2007. She is survived by her two sons, Sam H. Tomita of Lodi and William (Molly) Tomita of Redman, WA; two grandchildren, Ryan and Jayme Tomita; two sisters, May Okamoto of Minneapolis, MN and Alice Matsuda of Hawaii and one brother, Harry Okamoto. She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Tomita in 1992, daughter Nancy Yabu in 2002 and brothers, Isamu and George Okamoto. Mary Tomita

Posted May 17, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly May 17-23, 2007.

TOMOYASU, SANAE, 76, passed away on May 28, 2007 at her home. She was born in Yokohama city, Kanagawa prefecture, Japan. Sanae is survived by her husband, Tadaaki Kinoshita; daughter Naomi (Edward N., PhD) Shearin, PhD; younger brother Fusayuki Ichige; brothers-in-law Kouji and Teruo Kinoshita and grandchild Nicolas Shearin. She was a member of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, Hokka Nichi Bei Kai and the Buddhist Church of San Francisco. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 14 at 10 a.m. at the Buddhist Church of San Francisco, 1881 Pine St. Mary Tomita

Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly June 21-27, 2007.

TORP, CARL B., 89, passed away on March 30, 2007 at his home in S.F. Mr. Torp had served in the U.S. Army after WWII where he met and married Tomoe Hamada. He was a long time resident of S.F. and his younger daughter Shirley Hamada Torp was Cherry Blossom Queen of 1978. He is survived by his wife Tomoe, daughters Christine and Shirley and grandchildren Chloe, Alexander and Andrea. Carl Torp

Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly April 26-May 2, 2007.

TSUJIMOTO, HAROLD, 78, a long time resident of El Cerrito, passed away peacefully at Doctors Medical Center in San Pablo, CA. Beloved husband of Daisy, loving father of Gail Tsujimoto-Cho (Andy) and Lianne Tsujimoto-Wong (Jensen), devoted grandfather of Devin and Alyssa Cho and Kyle, Ryan and Sydney Wong. He is also survived by his brothers Ted Tsujimoto and Nick Tsujimoto and sister Sachi Yamasaki, and many nieces and nephews. Funeral/Memorial Service will be held on July 14, 2007 at 4 p.m. at the Buddhist Church of Oakland, 825 Jackson Street, Oakland, CA 94607. Harold Tsujimoto

Posted June 19, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly June 21-27, 2007.

URANO, MIE, 96, went to be with the Lord on December 3, 2007. She was born on February 4, 1911 in Sakura, Chiba, Japan. She was the fourth of eight children. She graduated from Tokyo Jogakkan. She married Shigeo Urano in 1929 and had two sons, Yusuke and Hiroyasu, and a daughter Yoko. Mie lived in New York City with her husband and her sons in the late 1930s. In 1954, Mie and her daughter joined Shigeo in San Francisco where he was the executive vice president of The Sumitomo Bank of California. While living in San Francisco, Mie was instrumental in founding Satsuki Kai, a club for the wives of Japanese businessmen to help the women acculturate to the United States. Mie is preceded in death by her husband Shigeo. She is survived by her sons Yusuke (Eiko) Urano of Takarazuka, Japan, and Hiroyasu (Kimiko) Aikawa of Nishinomiya, Japan, and her daughter Yoko (Ernest) Kilbourne of Fresno. Mie is also survived by eight grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held at Clovis Free Methodist Church on Dec. 8. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Clovis Free Methodist Church building fund, 2165 Gettsburg, Clovis, CA 93611.Mie Urano

Posted December 13, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly December 13-19, 2007.

UMEMOTO, DAVID NORIAKI, 72, passed away unexpectedly at home. Beloved husband of the late Emily Yoko Umemoto. Devoted son of Shizuyo and the late Noritaka Umemoto; loving brother of Ernest Umemoto, Joane Maser and the late Diane Murdock; caring brother-in-law of Nancy Katayama Sharon Umemoto and John Murdock; loving father of Audrey Young, Stacey Ospina and Janell Umemoto; respected father-in-law of Stephen Young and David Ospina; most adored grandfather of Jeanine and Julia Young; Michelle, Jared and Connor Ospina. David was born in Salinas, CA, and grew up in San Jose. He lived his entire life in the Bay Area. David was a most loving friend and will be missed by all who knew him. Viewing from 2:00 p.m., funeral services at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday January 13 at Sneider, Sullivan & O’Connell’s Funeral Home, 977 S. El Camino, San Mateo - 650-343-1804. If desired, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in David’s memory. David Umemoto

Posted Jan. 9, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Jan. 11-17, 2007.

UYEMOTO, MICHIKO, passed away at the age of 94 on April 23, 2007. She was born in Pepekeo, Hawaii on November 23, 1912. She was sent to Japan at age 6 where she was raised with half-brother Ray Okamura. She married Kanichi Uyemoto through an arranged marriage in 1931. She arrived in Yuba City where she resided since 1931, except during camp relocation from 1942-45 in Amache, Colorado. She raised 6 daughters and 2 sons. She managed a large agricultural farm growing peaches, tomatoes, almonds, prunes and walnuts. She was known as a great cook. She was a member of the Marysville Buddhist Church, Fujinkai and JACL. All of her 8 children, 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren enjoyed family gatherings at her home in Yuba City, especially New Years. She is survived by sons Jimmy (Pat) and Kenny (Debbie) Uyemoto; daughters Mary Watanabe, Jean (Fred) Matsui, Terry (Tom) Oshidari, Diane (Eugene) Nakamura and Cynthia (Art) Fong; son-in-law Bert Berger; brother Ray (Mineko) Okamura; sister Irene Nakatani and several others residing in Hawaii; 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She was pre-deceased by her husband, Kanichi (in June 1979); son, Wallace; daughter, Lily Berger (Leiko); son-in-law Fred Watanabe and grandson David Watanabe. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 29 at 2 p.m. at the Marysville Buddhist Church, 125 ‘B’ St. in Marysville. We will all miss you very much Mom (Bachan & Hii-Bachan), but Papa has finally called you to his side. Michiko Uyemoto

Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly April 26 - May 2, 2007.

UYETA, EI, 82, passed away on July 12, 2007 in Hayward, Calif. She was born on November 16, 1924 in Kochi-ken, Japan. She was a resident of Foster City for 31 years. Ei was predeceased by her husband, Tokio Uyeta. She is survived by her daughters Andrea Uyeta-Buckley (Robert), Mieko (Joseph) Parker and Keiko (Thomas) Tsuyuki; granddaughter Kerensa Uyeta-Buckley; grandson Garrett Uyeta-Buckley; sister Kimi Maeda; sister-in-law Yoko Uyeda; brother-in-law Don Uyeda and sisters-in-law from Japan, Tamiko Yamawaki and Saeko Chikami. Ei was a member of Sowan Kochi Kenjinkai and San Mateo Buddhist Temple. A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 20 at 1 p.m. at San Mateo Buddhist Temple, 2 South Claremont in San Mateo. Ei Uyeta

Posted July 17, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly July 19-25, 2007.

WADA, HELEN SADAKO. Born on Feb 25, 1924 in Fair Oaks, Calif., Helen passed away on January 4, 2007, at Sutter General Hospital at age 82. She resided in Sacramento, Calif., and graduated from Elk Grove High School. She was a member of Wakayama Kenjin-Kai, Sacramento Fujin-Kai (Buddhist Womens Association). Helen enjoyed cooking, but her main passion was attending to her only grandchild. The loving wife and partner in both work and life of Toru Wada, she is survived by sons Alan Satoru Wada (Marta) and Glen Noboru Wada (Kay), granddaughter Lauren Sadako Wada, brother Fred Tanigawa, sister Betty Deguchi. Predeceased by her brother James Tanigawa. The family would like to thank the medical staff at Sutter General for the extraordinary and compassionate care that they had provided to Helen and her family. Services on Thursday, Jan. 11, at 11:00 AM at Buddhist Church of Sacramento, 2401 Riverside Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95818. Helen Wada

Posted Jan. 10, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Jan. 11-17, 2007.

WADA, TOM TORU. Born in April 14, 1916 in Loomis, Calif., Toru passed peacefully on January 29, 2007, at Sutter General Hospital at age 90. He resided in Sacramento, Calif., and was a member of Wakayama Kenjin-Kai and the Sacramento Gardeners Association. Toru was an excellent musician and played both guitar and mandolin for Sakura Production Band. He loved stamp collecting and watching sports including sumo wrestling, but Toru's favorite activity was attending his only granddaughter's basketball games and golf tournaments. Toru was a loving and dedicated husband and unsurpassed father. He is survived by sons Alan Satoru Wada (Marta) and Glen Noboru Wada (Kay), granddaughter Lauren Sadako Wada. Toru is predeceased by wife, Helen Sadako Wada and brother, James Wada. The family would like to thank everyone for their heart-felt support and to the Sutter medical staff for the compassionate care provided during his last days in the hospital. Services will be on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 2:00 PM at Buddhist Church of Sacramento, 2401 Riverside Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95818. Tom Wada

Posted Feb. 5, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Feb. 8-14, 2007.

WAKIDA, HARUYE, 98, passed away on February 10, 2007 at Yuba City Sutter North Hospital. She is survived by sons Tomio and Takao Wakida, daughters Mieko Yoshida and Kumiko Adachi, seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Haruye was a member of Tensho Kotai Jingu-kyo and Riverside Tanoshimi Kai. A funeral will be held on Saturday, Feb. 17 at McNary’s Chapel Inc., 458 College St. in Woodland, Calif. The family requests there be no flowers or donations. Haruye Wakida

Posted Feb. 14, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Feb. 15-21, 2007.

WATANABE, CHIYE. Born Chiye M. Tatsuno on September 3, 1915, in San Francisco and died in Sacramento on April 27, 2007 at the age of 91. Chiye was preceded in death by husband Roy G. Watanabe (1969); sister Yaeko Matsudaira; brother Dave (Alice) Tatsuno; brother Masateru “Tut” Tatsuno and nephew, Sheldon Tatsuno. Chiye is survived by her son, Glenn (Nancy) Watanabe and sister-in-law Fumi Tatsuno. She was “Auntie Chi” to Rod Tatsuno, Arlene (Gene) Damron; Valerie (Carl) Sermon, Sheridan (Muneko – deceased) Tatsuno; Melanie (Ron) Cochran; Dean (Marian) Tatsuno; Gwen Tatsuno, Jessie (Rob) Roth, and Marice (Steve) Shiozaki. Chiye grew up in Nihonmachi and could often be found helping at her father’s dry goods store, Nichi Bei Bussan. In 1941, she married architect Roy G. Watanabe and learned to love the great outdoors. Chiye could often be found in hip boots fishing for trout with Roy, Glenn and her nephews in the high Sierras, Idaho and Montana. Chiye also enjoyed golf, bridge, Japanese flower arrangement, world travel, volunteering, participating in family events and attending concerts and cultural events with her many dear friends. A private family service will be held in Colma. Any remembrances may be sent to the Pine United Methodist Church, 426 33rd Avenue, San Francisco, 94121, or to the organization of one’s choice. Chiye Watanabe

Posted May 3, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly May 3-9, 2007.

YABUMOTO, KIMIE, 88, passed away on February 16, 2007 in Stockton, California. She was born in Reigo, California on December 16, 1918. She is survived by her husband, Shigeru R. Yabumoto; sons Joe (Vivian), Jeff (Nancy) and Bill (Joi) Yabumoto; daughters Jean and Judi Yabumoto; grandchildren Brad, Kristina, Allyson, Justin, Nicholas and Nate; brothers Yosh, Tad and Kenso Kono and sister Margaret Mitani. She was preceded in death by brothers Shig and Tak Nakano and sister Chieko Matsumoto. Kimie was a member of the Stockton Buddhist Church and the JACL. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 24 at 3 p.m. at the Stockton Buddhist Church, 2820 Shimizu Dr. in Stockton. Kimie Yabumoto

Posted Feb. 26, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Feb. 22-28, 2007.

YAMADA, TADASHI “TAD,” 89, passed away on Wednesday, November 28, 2007 in Lafayette. A native of Oakland, and long-time resident of Berkeley. Survived by his sisters, Sachi Yamada, and June Tamanaha and her husband, Kiyo; brothers, Mits Yamada and his wife, Hide, and Yosh Yamada; and a host of nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his sisters, Chieko Sakai, Miyeko Mishima, and Chizu Hosoume; brother, Mas Yamada; and cousin, Eilo Moritani. Mr. Yamada worked as an accountant for Pacific Inter-Mountain Express Trucking Line, Oakland, retired. Friends and acquaintances are cordially invited to attend memorial services Saturday, December 8 at 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Sunset View Mortuary, top of Fairmount Avenue, El Cerrito. Private cremation. Sunset View Mortuary Tel. (510) 525-5111 Tadashi Yamada

Posted December 6, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly December 6-12, 2007.

YEGO, MASAKO NAKATA, born March 13, 1913 in Newcastle, CA, died at home in Penryn on January 20, 2007. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas M. Yego, Sr. and a daughter, Florence Yego. She is survived by a son, Thomas (Jean) Yego, Jr.; daughters, Elaine (George) Hirabayashi and Lucille (Chester) Fukushima; grandchildren, Jon (Nancy Yamabe) Yego, Ron Yego, Joni Hirabayashi, Lori (Bruce) Shewchuk, Steven Fukushima and Ryan Fukushima; and three great-grandchildren, Kasey Shewchuk, Dani Shewchuk and Jason Riffe. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, January 26 at the Placer Buddhist Church, 3192 Boyington Rd. in Penryn. Masako Yego

Posted Jan. 23, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly Jan. 25-31, 2007.

YOKOYAMA, FRED, 79, passed away on August 1, 2007 in Santa Rosa, Calif. He was born on May 26, 1928 in Sebastopol, Calif. Mr. Yokoyama is survived by his wife, Kimi; sons Rick, Doug, Dave and Mark Yokoyama; daughter Sandy Tsujihara; sisters Anne Ohki and Mary Hamamoto and brother Jim Yokoyama. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Aug. 11 at 3:00 p.m. at Enmanji Buddhist Temple, 1200 Gravenstein Hwy. in South Sebastopol. Fred Yokoyama

Posted August 6, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly August 9-15, 2007.

YUKAWA, TERUKO “GRACE”, 79, died February 25, 2007 in San Francisco. She was born on April 17, 1927 in San Francisco. Teruko Yukawa

Posted March 8, 2007. Published in the Nichi Bei Times Weekly March 8-14, 2007.

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