Asako Machida Hamai
HAMAI, ASAKO MACHIDA passed peacefully with her devoted children at her side on February 13, 2012 in Berkeley, Calif. Born on Aug. 22, 1925 in Sasebo, Japan, she came to the U.S. as a military wife in 1954. Living briefly in Honolulu, Phoenix, Cleveland, and Eureka, Calif., she always called San Francisco her home. She worked many years as a waitress for several Japanese restaurants in San Francisco, the last being Kui Shin Bo in Japantown. After retiring, she became a resident of Nihonmachi Terrace, where she enjoyed the community and company of friends. She enjoyed trips to Reno, music and dance, reading, playing cards, animals, going out for sushi and spending time with her children. After her diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, she resided for a short time at SF Community Hospital, under the good care of Dr. Umekubo. She then moved to Chaparral House, a skilled nursing facility in Berkeley, where she made many good friends. Although her life was hard at times, she was a strong person, and always knew how to have a good time. Even up until her recent illness, she participated in many activities, bringing enthusiasm, laughter, and joy to all she met. The family would like to express their thanks for the thoughtful care provided by Kimochi, Chaparral House and Pathways Hospice, and to all who showed her kindness throughout her life. She is survived by her loving daughter, Helen Workman, and son, Tom Workman, and will be dearly missed. A small memorial gathering is being planned by Chaparral House. Gifts in her memory may be made to Chaparral House, 1309 Allston Way, Berkeley, CA, 94702 or the Alzheimer’s charity of your choice.
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