Haruko Wilson

1933 - 2025

Haruko Wilson, known as Cha Cha, 92, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, in Richmond Heights, Missouri at Allegro Senior Living.

Born on March 4, 1933 in Nagoya Japan, Cha Cha earned a high school diploma with a specialty in sewing. In her early years, she worked at her family's shoe store in Japan. After marrying Emil Wilson Sr. in 1955, she embraced the life of a military wife, became a naturalized US citizen, and traveled the world alongside her husband during his 27-year service in the U.S. Air Force. They settled down in Fairview Heights, IL in 1978.

Throughout her life, Cha Cha held many roles-cleaning lady, seamstress, dry cleaner manager, Avon seller, and owner of two Japanese food stores. Her entrepreneurial spirit and keen business sense were evident in every venture she pursued. In 1979, she began working in food preparation at Andria's Restaurant. Over time, she became an owner and remained a loyal part of the Andria family and business for 46 years.

Cha Cha was known for her no-nonsense attitude, sharp wit, and unwavering attention to detail. She had a curious mind and was never afraid to learn something new. Organized and wise, she often shared her insights-her most memorable advice being "save your money." She made every moment a teaching moment and took pride in doing things "her way." She was a dog and cat person, excellent cook, avid collector, and loved playing slots and bingo, watching mystery shows and scary movies, and thrift shopping.

Cha Cha is survived by her three children: Emil Jr. (Debra), Kimberly (David), and Lydia (Dan); grandchildren: Michael Sr. (Nicole), Emil III, Samuel (Lauren), Rachel, and Elsa; great-grandchildren: Michael Jr. and Jonathan; as well as step-children, nieces and nephews.

Cha Cha will be cremated without a ceremony and laid to rest alongside her beloved husband of 61 years, Emil Wilson Sr., at Oak Grove Cemetery in Delaware, Ohio. A March Celebration of Life gathering is being planned.

Her memory will live on through the lessons she taught and the love she gave so freely.