OBITUARY: Eleanor Sakaye Yoshioka

Eleanor Sakaye Yoshioka

YOSHIOKA, ELEANOR SAKAYE, 97, passed away peacefully in her sleep, just as she wished, on Sept. 11, 2013. Those who knew her, will be comforted knowing she lived life to the fullest her last few years. Camping, swimming for the first time, and treks all over northern California in a wheelchair kept her and everyone around her happy. Her love of the 49er’s, progressive politics, food and movies made her a lively conversationalist and humorous commentator.

Born June 26, 1916 in Salinas, Calif., she was pre-deceased by her husband Fred Mamoru, son Dale Matsue, four of her six siblings, Mas, Mitsue, John, and Thelma Noguchi. She is survived by brother Bob Noguchi of Denver, daughters Joy (Roger) and Jo Ann (Tom), grandchildren, Aimee (Mike), Ama and Temujen, and 2 great-grandchildren, Elisha and Shemariah.

Despite her internment at Poston, Ariz., numerous losses of loved ones and many challenges throughout her life, she remained determined to always be independent, proud and do random acts of kindness for those less fortunate than her.  She will be missed but was truly loved. Her memory will always bring a smile to those who had the privilege of knowing her. Services will be Sunday, Oct. 6 at 5 p.m. at the San Jose Buddhist Church, 640 N. 5th St., San Jose, Calif.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the non-profit, the English Center, 66 Franklin St., Oakland, CA 94607.