Kazuko H. Lewis

Kazuko H. Lewis
1933-2012
Salt Lake City, UT-Kazuko Hamada Lewis, 78, peacefully departed this life on May 29, 2012 surrounded by her loving family. Kazuko was born in Osaka Japan on November 15, 1933 to Katsu Shige and Hanae Hamada.
She lived in Japan until 1956 when she married a U S Marine Rowely Eben Lewis in Japan and traveled to the United States where they had 4 children together. Kazuko was a woman of courage, vision and drive. After living in the United States for 4 short years she was faced with the challenge of raising four young sons in a foreign land by herself. She was determined and committed to make it on her own. She sacrificed and dedicated herself to provide for her sons and to give them the opportunities and independence she longed for herself. She worked hard for what she loved, her boys. Although their means were modest she made sure they never went without.
Kazuko's work ethic, dedication and attention to detail were unmatched. After a fulfilling career of 30 years at Litton Industries she began her retirement and deservedly enjoyed every minute, taking many trips back to Japan to visit family, and many trips with family & friends. She was proud of her Japanese heritage and loved watching TV Japan programs/movies and reading her Japanese books. Her face would light up when she would speak to friends and family in her native Japanese tongue, she just seemed at home. The highlight of her week was the time she spent for lunch and coffee with her friends. She was a fantastic cook and often spoiled her family with Japanese cuisine. She was very generous and loved giving gifts. It was impossible to stop at her home for a visit and leave empty handed. She was unabashedly honest and direct. She told it how it was without reservation. She had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh, almost as much as those around her loved to hear her laugh.
Kazuko had many interests and talents. She loved frogs and has collected countless figurines and keepsakes. In her later years she learned the art of painting and created many wonderful ceramic pieces. She folded beautiful origami, crocheted and learned to play the organ.
Kazuko lived for her family and loved her friends and it was with great courage and conviction she closed this chapter of her life and stepped into the next.
She is survived by children Chuck (Tracy), George (Felicia), Bob (Denise), Sam (Tina) 18 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. Kazuko is preceded in death by her parents and 2 siblings.
In lieu of services, she has requested a party celebrating her life with all family members Friday, June 1st. She will be cremated and placed next to her close friend (in her apartment) at Garner Funeral Home/Salt Lake Mausoleum. Family and friends can offer condolences at www.garnerfuneral.com.