Mrs. Grace Yuko Yamamoto

Beloved wife, mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2012 with her family by her side. Born Grace Murakami on September 15, 1932, in Los Angeles, she was interned at Poston Relocation Camp during WWII with her family. After the war she attended UCLA and taught English and Home Economics at Roosevelt High School in Los Angeles. Grace married Shogo Yamamoto in 1958. After spending the early years of their marriage in the Boston area, they returned to California, living in Monterey Park and Anaheim before moving to Santa Barbara in 1971. Grace participated in local bowling leagues, enjoyed many crafts and hobbies and took pleasure in the daily crossword in the News Press. She worked behind the counter at Color Services for several years during the 80s at their De La Vina and Canon Perdido Street locations. In recent years Grace became an avid fan of the LA Lakers, and was a devoted volunteer for the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara and Direct Relief International’s “Holy Roller” bandage rolling group. Grace is fondly remembered for her many small acts of kindness and her famous homemade English toffee. Her incandescent smile was never brighter than when she was helping or encouraging others and will be sorely missed. Grace was predeceased by her parents, Dr. Tsuneo and Fumiko Murakami, and brother Paul. She is survived by her husband Shogo and daughter Noreen, son-in-law Vince Sherry, granddaughter Anna Sherry; brother Dr. William Murakami and wife Sumie, sister-in-laws Tami Murakami and Sumi Niizawa; nieces Dawn Murakami, Lynne Sueki, Jill and Lynn Niizawa, Annie Florendo and Amy Murakami; nephew Eric Murakami. In accordance with Grace’s wishes, there will be no funeral services. Her ashes will be scattered at sea and a celebration of her life will be held at later date - details forthcoming. Her family would like to express their gratitude to her oncologist, Dr. Thomas Woliver and to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care, in particular, the amazing and compassionate staff of Serenity House. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cancer Center of Santa Barbara, Direct Relief International, or Santa Barbara’s Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care are suggested.

Mrs. Grace Yuko Yamamoto

September 15, 1932 - April 9, 2012