Ayame Tsutakawa

Ayame Tsutakawa passed away on August 16, 2017, at Keiro Northwest. Ayame was born in Hollywood, CA, May 23, 1924; her parents were Mary Kyotani and Henry Murakami. She is predeceased by her husband, George Tsutakawa (1910-1997). Ayame was sent to live in Okayama, Japan, from the ages of 2 to 14, then returned to the US and lived in Sacramento. She studied Japanese traditional dance and music and was selected Miss Nisei Sacramento for the Golden Gate International Exposition in 1940. Ayame performed on stage in the Tule Lake Camp and continued performing after the war. In camp, she met Nisei artist and US Army sergeant George Tsutakawa who was visiting his relatives. In 1947, she moved to Seattle to marry George and the family has lived in the Mt. Baker neighborhood since 1955. Ayame was active in many Japanese cultural activities and was a wonderful chef and hostess. She supported the Ikebana Society, Kubota Garden, Seattle Asian Art Museum, and Wing Luke Asian Museum.

She has four children: Gerard (wife Judith), Mayumi, Deems (wife Jean) and Marcus (wife Paula); six grandchildren (Kenzan, Zana, Yayoi, Raeya, Kizamu, Carly) and three great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank the staff at Keiro Home's Garden Terrace. A private memorial service is planned.

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Published by The Seattle Times on Aug. 27, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Ayame Tsutakawa

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4 Entries

Sara Ullman

September 15, 2017

What I knew of Ayame personally was that she was enduringly beautiful, gracious, graceful and positive. As my grandparents were very close friends with Ayame and George, I also knew her through the stories they would tell of their times together. If you heard anyone talk of their evenings gathered in each others homes, sharing ideas, drawing, sharing food and drink Or their times at Hood Canal or Shi Shi Beach, relishing the surroundings, camping, telling stories, feasting on food they had caught, collected or foraged themselves you would surely want to be there yourself.

Ayame was also someone with whom my grandmother could reaffirm and strengthen her identity as a Japanese woman even as she was becoming an American. My grandma would recall times of feeling "lonely for other asians" and how grateful she was to meet the Tsutakawas.

I also know Ayame through the incredible family she raised. All her children are loved and revered in the community and I don't know if it's possible to find a Tsutakawa in any generation who isn't gifted with impressive creativity. What I admire most about Ayame, however, is the love and importance of family that she instilled. I consider the Tsutakawas a great role model in this regard. Ayame was surrounded by love and when I say surrounded, she was literally, physically surrounded by her children and grandchildren because none of them went far away and in some cases only went as far as across the street or around the corner. They have almost created a sort of family compound by living with backyards touching etc. There is a sense of filial responsibility that could be a manifestation of Ayame and Georg's Japanese heritage but there is also so clearly a genuine love and a desire to support each other and an enjoyment of being in each other's company. They have quick access to that sense of well-being that comes from knowing that your family is thriving or having the power to help them if they aren't. Even the third generation - some of them living in other states now - have been known to keep in touch through occasional cousin conference calls.

It's sad and strange to be referring to Ayame in the past tense but to see her family and to know that she has another great grandchild on the way, is a beautiful reminder about the circle of life.

Tsutakawa family, our hearts and thoughts are with you! With much love and affection from Sara, David & Cyrus

Jeanni Thomas

September 7, 2017

Dear Deems, Marcus, Mayumi, Gerry and family,
Your Mom always had such a quiet and noble grace about her.
Growing up across the street, seeing her out in the yard , coming and going ,or dressed up in her fancy party clothes, I always felt privileged to get a glimpse of her or even to be in her presence.
Whenever she rounded you guys up to come inside when we were playing in the courtyard or climbing the cherry trees in the back,
she always spoke quietly but firmly. It was clear thar all of you held immeasurable love and respect for her as you listened and obeyed her requests promptly. She was truly the queen of your home and all of you were happy and eager to please her. As a young child, I felt like I was in the presence of royalty, simply knowing her and your Dad as well.
Please accept my deepest sympathies for your loss. Hopefully the cherished memories of your parents will give you comfort through this mournful transition.
As your former neighbor, I am thankful and honored to have known your parents and family for my entire life.
Much Love and heartfelt hugs to all,❤
Jeanni Lopez Thomas

Mary Beck Courtney

August 28, 2017

Dear Deems, Marcus & Family,
My condolences to you at the passing of your sweet Mother. I don't know if some are aware, but your Mom & I worked together teaching Multi-Ethnic Music programs when I was in Seattle Public Schools. I'd also been @ the home w/Deems, having grown up in Mount Baker Park when younger. I will always remember her Kindness & the Fun we had working together w/children where I gained a greater appreciation, as she shared Japanese Arts, Music & instruments w/many students. I know she will be missed. Our Love & prayers for you and your Family during this time of loss.

Tony Volchok

August 27, 2017

Dear Tsutakawa Family,
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your mom the other day. I would like to say, that is was an honor to have known your mom and to have played in the house around her . I always liked to hear her play her koto and to see how she and your father were together .
She will be missed i know . My prayers go out to all of you.
Love you all.

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