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Travis Kawasaki Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Travis Kawasaki
Jeff Adams
April 26, 2023
I remember Travis from Strada. He worked with my good friend Kirk Pemberton who is also now gone. Rest in peace Travis.
Mary Cummins
August 31, 2008
Travis - Thank-You for bringing my brother, David Hutchison through for me. Until we all meet again. Robin
Donna Bodiford
July 8, 2008
Travis:
I had been trying to reach you for a long time now to schedule our annual lunch only to find that you have gone. Thank you for choosing me as your chef apprentice all those years ago at the Radisson and Strada World Cuisine. I will miss you deeply. You have not only left a great food legacy, but I know how proud you were of your sons and their families. I love you.
Donna
Kurt Johnson
February 15, 2008
I worked with Travis at Cafe Martinique in the early 90's and I credit him with nurturing a budding passion for fine food and wine around which I have based my life and work.
I just heard through a mutual friend that he passed away and it was hard to believe. Travis will always have a special place in my heart and we will raise a glass (or two) in his memory.
How you can show support
pete caputo
October 17, 2007
Sox and the Kawasaki family,
I am deeply saddened by Travis' passing. I have come to know Travis as one easy going ,kind hearted,generous person.He was a great friend,hunting buddy,and chef.It was a pleasure to have spent time with him as he seem's to make everyones life a little better. Travis thanks for the memories...
Joan & Jerry Grdina
October 16, 2007
To the Kawasaki Family:
We wanted to express our sympathy for your loss. We met Travis through my brother in law, Gary Noe. Gary took me and my sister to dinner at Strada and he made us a fabulous dinner (I took pictures of it to show my husband since he was not there with us.) My husband wanted to go to Strada the next time we visited Columbus. When we came to dinner a few months later, Travis made us a wonderful dinner at the restaurant and my husband was so impressed.
When we were planning my husband's 50th birthday party, I asked Travis if he would come to Cleveland and cook for our party - which he did, along with my brother in law, Gary. The party was a success and our 100 guests raved about the food that Travis made for months after the party.
He was a wonderful chef and we will miss him on our annual outing to Middle Bass Island.
Matt Caserta
October 15, 2007
Dear Helen, Sox, and Family,
I just heard the news and I am truly sorry. I loved Travis as a brother and enjoyed the generous hospitality from the entire family. I remember the hunting trips with Sox, and all the great times we shared "back in the old days". May God bless you all.
Aunt Jeanie and Uncle Bud Stratton
October 14, 2007
My memories of Travis are all cute and funny. He stayed with me when his brother Shannon was born his stories about The Rabbit, Branswagert and Old Crawdad his family know what they are. Trav was very special to me I loved him very much, I'll miss him badly. Oh I about forgot The Ride he took on Uncle Bud's leg. The last time we were together about a week before he got sick we all thought he had gone Skinny Dipping but it was a flesh colored swimming suit. I'll miss that little smile he had. I'll miss you Old Crawdad.
Debbie Payner
October 12, 2007
cuz,Im glad I had the oppertunity to show your loved ones the feeling that I had... Or lets just say the gang thats still growing hopefully will remember the memorys that started the day you were born. Thank you for sharing our childhood together, 44 years. thanks for the memorys at the beach. Second in line cuz!Still the chief that I always called the dough boy. Debbie
Sherry Grimmett
October 11, 2007
I was at Jordan's Deli today to celebrate your short journey on earth, though we were not ready to say good-bye the Big guy had other plans for you. He needs Angels of all ages, make us as proud of you in Heaven as we are here on earth. As we drove away in the rain the sun broke thru with big rays of sunshine as if to say "Thanks Family and Friends," I'll miss you too, but Trav's ok. I'll carry you in my heart, till we hug again. Love ya! Your Cuz Sherry
Flo Baquet
October 11, 2007
Dear Travis, I was absolutely shocked to hear from Fana that you left us for a little while. After Strada, I had really hoped I'd bump into you at another fine restaurant. Alas, we never did. Thanks for all your special-ness" and wonderful meals. Your kindness and friendship are your trademarks. And I did tell Fana you always had this huge crush on her.I will always have fond and funny memories of the short time we spent. You are my favorite chef. Cookin' for the "Big Guy" now, huh?! Take care of yourself & stay loving. Miss ya much!
Tracy Kawasaki
October 10, 2007
As I have talked to so many of Travis's friends and coworkers, I begin to understand how strongly forged are Travis's bonds of friendship.
I find so many in the fine food trade would follow Travis from restaurant to restaurant, leaving good jobs to follow the man Doral Chenoweth (the grumpy gourmet)called his favorite chef.
I remember the great fishing and hunting trips.
I also remember the many things we did when we were young and stupid; bridge jumping on the canoe trips, the canoe with a keg in it, playing with hydrogen, drinking games around the campfire, and pirates on the Mohican River.
I remember how Travis was free with his generosity, His gift for making those around him feel they were special, when you were with Trav, you were special. I recall how you never bragged about your awards and citations. I know you gave freely of your time and money to so many charities and causes.
Travis, I know you had dreams unfulfilled. You never made the trip to France or Hong Kong. You did marry a playboy bunny, you raised three excellent sons, you made your parents proud and I will always stand in awe of how you gave your best in the kitchen. To you being a chef was not a job, it was a calling.
The world will be dimmer now that you have taken your light and left us.
John S. Wingertsahn
October 9, 2007
Dear Dog,
Sorry to hear that you have left us far to soon.I only wish that I had the oppurtunity to thank you for your frienship and generosity.I will always remember our time at The Indy 500 and other adventures.God bless to you and your love ones.From Johnny-Luther & Satch
Bob Rankin
October 6, 2007
Travis, as I talked with Tracy tonight we spoke of the way you could make the most stiff of us dance like Gipetto would any puppet--by manipulating our politcal/spiritual wires--while you roared with good-hearted laughter at the expressions you had prompted on even your closest friends unassuming faces.
I will miss you.
Thank you for the non-judgmental ever supportive friendship.
Bob Rankin
July 2006 Middle Bass Island Cottage Lake Erie
Gary & Linda Noe
October 6, 2007
Travis, Travis, Travis, why did you have to leave us so soon? Over the years We have been blessed to know You, You became a part of Our Family. Linda, Joan & Jerry, Peter & Michael, Alan & Mary, Lindsey,Carla & Dylan, all greive in Your absence. You "My Bro-Thar" are the most loved man I have ever known. Your gentle way, Your smiling face, Your always helping hand when needed, it's hard to imagine life without You. Lake Erie trips will not be the same. Thanks for all the beautiful memories. We will all look forward to seeing you on "the other side." [photos in album]
Tracy Kawasaki
October 5, 2007
To Travis Kawasaki's family, many friends, business associates and coworkers in the fine food trade. We will all miss Travis. To get information about Travis's memorial service you may contact me through the link below.
John Zulovitz
October 5, 2007
I worked with Travis some years ago; not only was he a gifted chef, he was also a wonderful person. I had known of his family for some years, but it was some time before Travis and I made the connection. His wit and sense of humor, his genuine compassion for others, will be missed but not forgotten.
Mary Long
October 5, 2007
Travis Kawasaki was not only a great chef, he was a very special nephew. I will miss him greatly.
One of the things I will miss most are his hugs. When those big strong arms wrapped around you and that little grunting sound when he hugged me, I knew he loved me and that he meant it. When he was small and through his teen years he was called Sho Sho by the family. I guess that tells you what kind of boy he was. I will miss Chef Sho Sho terribly. Always, Aunt Mary
Dean Kawasaki
October 5, 2007
Sox,Helen and family
Sending our prayers,thoughts and love to all of you.
Terry Kawasaki
October 5, 2007
Travis, I believe that those of us who know you realize we are ingredients in your recipe for life. The ingredients may change, but each recipe is to be savored. Now I understand why each ingredient is so important.
Thank You Chef I miss you my brother T.K.
Catherine Morel
October 4, 2007
You will be missed.
Lori Boder
October 4, 2007
I feel truly honored to have known Trav. My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Tracy Kawasaki
October 4, 2007
Travis was my brother, He was one of the few people in my life that I could ask for unconditional help and be confidant that Travis "had my back". I learned so much from Travis, everything from making sushi to parenting. I don't know how to fill this empty space in my heart that his untimely death has left. He was funny, generous and talented and I will miss him dearly
Terry Barr
October 4, 2007
Travis was a wonderful friend. The song Lean on Me reminded me of Travis because I could always count on him. He was one of the most intense fisherman who could catch walleye in his sleep. He made the best french onion soup I ever had. I will truly miss his smile and friendship
Dixie Didier
October 3, 2007
Sox and Helen I am so sorry to hear about Travis. He was a great kid. I really enjoyed babysitting and doing things with him and the rest of the family.I have alot of memories during that time. You are in my prayers.
Tom Fosco
October 3, 2007
Sox and Helen, Although I didn't know Travis very well, I remember mom and the rest of the family always telling stories from Japan and mom would keep us up to date on Travis in the news. So sorry about your loss, it is never easy.
Julie Miller
October 3, 2007
Kawasaki Family,
I am so thankful to have had the privilege and honor to have been Travs friend. He was my mentor and biggest cheerleader. I will miss him always but will hold him close forever. He taught me many things about food and cooking but many more things about being and amazing person. Most important, always smile and be positive. Trav I love you and miss you already.
You are all in my prayers and if any of you need anything please contact me.
Hazel Elliott
October 3, 2007
To the Kawasaki family ~ We would like to extend out deepest condolences at this time. Travis was a neighbor, and a dear friend, of our family for many years. My son went fishing with him, and enjoyed hearing about those Lake Erie fishing trips. We will miss him greatly. Very few days went by that we didn't say hello....indeed, he will be missed......The Elliott family
Cheri Hurlburt
October 3, 2007
Dear Helen and Sox, I only had the pleasure of knowing Travis as a very young boy, But oh what a pleasure it was. Our Deepest Sympathy, Cheri Hurlburt(Cheri Fosco)
Wesley McCoy
October 2, 2007
I looked forward every year to see Travis during deer season and eat some of the best food of my life. This deer season will truly be different than any other. I am very sorry to hear of the loss.
Kristina Davis
October 2, 2007
I worked with Travis at Strada for several years. Upon starting, I was a very picky eater. But I attribute the discovery of my love for seafood and fish entirely to him. Travis was funny, well-natured and calm. He was never a tyrant in the kitchen like some.
Thanks Travis for making me realize there's more to life than PB&J :)
You will be missed Travis.
With sympathy,
Brenda Taylor
October 2, 2007
To Tracy & The Kawasaki Family,
We am very sory to hear of your loss.We send a heartfelt prayer to each of you. Travis was very generous & helped reach out to the community through CMEC @ our auction for many years. Through the delicious food he made for the event & helping in any way he could to help raise money for children who could not otherwise afford a higher education. He will be missed. Our thoughts are with you. May the loving memories you have of Travis help you fill your sadness in your time of grief. Sincerely, Sam & Brenda Taylor
Toni Myles
October 2, 2007
To The Kawasaki Family,
Sorry to hear about Travis, it deeply saddened me to hear about someone that young passing away.
Toni Fosco-Myles (Japan)
Jennifer Henderson
October 2, 2007
I worked with Travis for only a short time, but he shared several wonderful food ideas. My prayers go out to his family and friends.
Vallee Beall
October 2, 2007
I worked w/Travis at Shaws. Always made me laugh and others too. Will be sadly missed.
DARLENE MORROW
October 2, 2007
OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO MY SISTER BEVERLY AND HER BOYS (AARON, ADAM, AUSTIN) IT WAS AN HONOR TO HAVE KNOWN TRAVIS AND WE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIS SMILE.
WITH ALL OUR LOVE AND DEEPEST SYMPATHY - THE MORROW FAMILY.
Jessica Jennens Slocumb
October 2, 2007
Sox, Helen and family. I was very shocked to read Travis had passed. He was my first love and I have several fond memories of him. One of him making me a special birthday dinner when he worked at the Inner Circle and the other of him and Happy making dinner for the whole family in the basement at Bobby Socks in Bexley when your family owned it. My prayers are with all of you and I hope God blesses your family with His love during your time of loss.
Pati (Hundley) Adams
October 2, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Travis. I went to middle school with Travis at Groveport. Even though that was many years ago I can still remember how all of us girls would fight over him, you would have thought that he was a movie star. We didn't keep in touch after High school but it seemed everytime I turned around I would hear someone say his name and what a wonderful Chef he had become and with a name like that I knew it could only be him. My sister Betty had all 3 of the boys on her school bus during there time at Southwestern City Schools and even taught Austin how to drive a car at Schwartz. What a small world it is. My thoughts and prayers will be with the entire Kawasaki Family during this time of sorrow. Please let me or my sister know if there is anything that we can do. May God Bless you and Keep.
Vincent Novak
October 1, 2007
Travis was a very special person. He greeted everyone with a smile. To be able to know at such an early age what career path to take and do it professionally for so many years is truly inspirational.
Aunt Nancy Rubenson
October 1, 2007
Thank you all for your kind expressions of sympathy. Trav was such a good, generous person - and a marvelous chef, as we all know so well. It hurts to know that when I next come through Columbus to visit the family, Trav won't be there cooking the Walleye or the Chicken Marsala (my favorite) for all of us. I am going to miss him terribly.
Steve Higgins
October 1, 2007
Travis will be deeply missed but never forgotten. So many lives have been enriched for having had Travis in them. My families thoughts and prayers are with the entire Kawasaki family.
JILL Fridley
October 1, 2007
To all whose lives that Travis touched. My heart and well thoughts are with you all. Travis was my class-mate and I am fortunate for knowing his family. Travis is probably cooking for some very happy people in heaven right now and of course making them laugh.
Mark Thomas
October 1, 2007
My Sympathy goes out to the whole family. My thoughts and prayers will be with you all in this trying time.
Davita Maxwell
October 1, 2007
I am truley sorry for your loss...I was completely devestated when I heard this horrible news...Travis was a wonderful person he will be greatly missed he always made me feel welcome and treated me like family...All the Kawasaki family will be in my prayers...I love all of you very much...
Betty Adams
October 1, 2007
Sox and Helen,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you.
Dennis Roach
October 1, 2007
I have known Travis and his family for a long time and feel truly bad for them. I do know that Travis and his grandfather will have some great times together now, cooking for some very special people.
Jeff Stroud
October 1, 2007
I worked with Trav a long time ago at Swensen’s. He was a great guy and one of my best friends in high school. My thoughts and prayers are with Helen and Sox and the rest of the Kawasaki family. Travis will be deeply missed.
Diane (Hoffine) Zook
October 1, 2007
Terry & Family,
I am so sorry about your loss. Please know you are in my prayers.
Claude Graves
October 1, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with Travis'family. He was a shining star in his profession and a great representative of Eastland Career Center. He will be missed.
Michelle Petrovski
October 1, 2007
I first met and worked for Travis at STRADA. I am who I am today because of Travis! He was an amaizng chef, mentor, and good friend! He will be in my heart always and forever. I will cherish all the good times we have had together. My thoughts and prayers are with the Kawasaki Family.
Trav, I love and miss you dearly! Love always, Shell Bell
Jill Baldwin
October 1, 2007
I worked with Travis many years ago at 55. All of these years later I can still remember what fun it was to work with him and the many times we laughed. My condolences.
Ben Crokie
October 1, 2007
Travis was A funny guy.My heart goes out to his family and friends.
Doni Schoedinger
October 1, 2007
I haven't been in touch with Travis since Strada closed. I keep saying I should get up to see him. I first met and worked with Travis at the Playboy Club. I watch his career move to the Monk and Cafe Martinique , later to Strada and on. He always made me laugh with his hunting stories . It was always an honor when he asked me to make special desserts for him at any of his locations. I will be thinking of him .
richard flore
October 1, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with Travis and his family. Travis made Eastland career center very proud with his accomplishments.
Jay Yardley
October 1, 2007
What Travis could do with food will truely be missed. Columbus has lost a true talent. One from the old school.
Mary Olander
October 1, 2007
Sox & Helen
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and the rest of the family.
Robin
Cindy Stankoski
October 1, 2007
Sending my deepest condolences. Travis was a great man who touched many people. God Bless.
Deb & John Chrystal
October 1, 2007
What an impact Travis had on so many people. He will be missed by many. It was our pleasure to get to know him and follow his skills as a chef through so many fine restaurants.
Jimmy Kollmer
October 1, 2007
The most gentle and thoughtful person I have ever had the privilege of having as a friend. I have always turned To Travis when I needed perspective, I will miss him terribly.
Rhonda Shamhart
October 1, 2007
Dear Family and Friends,
I am deeply saddened for the loss of Travis. I worked with Travis for several years at Strada World Cuisine, where his trade mark Calamari roll became famous. I always enjoyed working with him, he was good spirited person and I thoroughly enjoyed many of his culinary delicacies as did many people. His culinary talent will be greatly missed by all.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time, may memories bring you comfort.
My deepest condolences,
Strada employee (bartender) 1996-until they closed in 2004.
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