KIMIYE MARY KATO (EBATA)

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KIMIYE MARY KATO (nee EBATA) It is with utmost sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother on Monday, August 4, 2008 at Concordia General Hospital at the age of 92. Remaining to forever cherish her memory are her daughters Miyuki Rose (Takeo Kawasaki) and Satoye Irene (Terry Spooner); grandson Travis Kawasaki; granddaughter Angela (Ken Onysko); and great-grandson Ethan Kenji Onysko (nine weeks old - Kenji named by Mom); also many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Taichi (Tom) in 1985. Kimiye was born and raised in Vancouver, BC on January 31, 1916 the youngest and the last surviving of five siblings. Taichi and Kimiye were married in 1943 in Slocan City, BC., where they had their children, during the Japanese Canadian internment. They came to Winnipeg in 1947. In her earlier years in Vancouver, she enjoyed playing the organ (self taught) and had the natural ability to play by ear and became the organist at a nearby church. She often reminisced about roller skating to school, playing ping pong and baseball. Our mother was always very busy and happy in the kitchen preparing wonderful meals and also enjoyed sewing, embroidery and knitting. With respect to her wishes, there will be no funeral service and no koden. Cremation has taken place. A private family interment will be held at a later date at Chapel Lawn Cemetery with Rev. Fredrich Ulrich officiating. The family wishes to thank the staff at Donwood Personal Care Home where she had resided for the past two and a half years and also to the wonderful and compassionate staff at Concordia General Hospital. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Manitoba Buddhist Church or to a charity of your choice. She will be eternally remembered as a very sweet, caring and loveable mother. She was tiny in stature, but a giant in her warmth, kindness and generosity. WE LOVE YOU MAMA

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 10, 2008