Miyoko Claire Nakagawa's Obituary
On July 30, 2021 Miyoko Claire Nakagawa passed away peacefully at the age of 102 under the loving care of her family and the angels of Hospice Maui.
Miyoko was born on November 30, 1918 to Tomekichi and Yae Mori. She is pre-deceased by husband, Hiroshi Anthony Nakagawa, daughter Frances Oshita, son in law Albert Sakamoto and sisters Ann Nobuko (Kazuo) Kuwada, Aiko (Hidemi) Nakao and Hideko (Tsugi) Akamichi.
Miyoko is survived by daughter, Mitzi Sakamoto, grand-daughters, Lisa Ann (James Kimo) Apana, Joni (Derrick) Hamilton, Jennifer Stolpe, Alayna Benton, great-grandchildren, Ty and Kassandra Hamilton, sister, Setsuko Takahashi, brother Charles Matsubara, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Miyoko worked in sales on Market Street at Johnny’s clothing store, which was owned by the Oda family who also operated Peggy and Johnny’s in Kahului. Later she was part owner of a restaurant (Hale Ai) on Market Street. Much of her adult life was linked to activities around Market Street as husband, Hiroshi, grew up on Market Street where his family owned and operated the Nakagawa Tailor Shop. Mother, Yae, also operated a fish market on Market Street where Miyoko was born (in their home above the fish market).
Miyoko and Hiroshi enjoyed traveling to different countries around the world. Besides Las Vegas, Japan was one of their favorite vacation destinations. Numerous trips to Japan were made centering around the different regions, seasons and festivals in Japan.
Much to the surprise of her friends and family Miyoko discovered a hidden talent in her senior years. Through art classes at Kaunoa Senior Center Miyoko became quite an artist. Her water color (Sumie) and oil paintings adorned her home and she enjoyed gifting her family and friends with her beautiful paintings.
Granddaughter Joni shared thoughts that are echoed by all. “I have so many fond memories of Grandma watering her anthuriums, cooking delicious food and reading with me. God blessed that woman with an amazing amount of patience. Grandma will be missed but her legacy of delicious cooking, warm hugs, patience, grace, amazing artistry, travel and culture, and overflowing LOVE for family will live on in our memory and our hearts.”
Mahalo to all our family and friends who cared and showed kindness to “Grandma”. Special thanks to Saint Anthony Church, especially Monica Lori, Father Ace, Hospice Maui (Janelle, Mitsue and hospice angels) and Nakamura Mortuary for your support and kindness.
Private services were held and burial will be held at a later date.
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