Hiroko Kobashi

Hiroko Kobashi Obituary Hiroko Kobashi, a beacon of selflessness and generosity, passed away unexpectedly on September 9, 2025, in Santa Ana, California. Born in Kyoto, Japan, on November 24, 1935, Hiroko's journey was one marked by love, dedication, and cultural richness. She was the cherished wife of Luis Kobashi, to whom she was married for over six decades, and the beloved matriarch of a family that found solace in her boundless warmth.
Hiroko's early life in Kyoto shaped her into a diligent student who held her heritage close to her heart. After completing her high school education, she ventured across the ocean to the United States, where she attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). It was there, in an English class, that she met the love of her life, Luis. Their connection was profound and immediate, and after several years of courtship, they married in 1964, beginning a partnership that would blossom for 61 years.
As a mother and wife, Hiroko's dedication to her family was unparalleled. She considered caring for her loved ones her foremost vocation, and she did so with a grace and strength that became the cornerstone of her family's happiness. She is survived by her devoted husband, Luis; her loving daughters, Kathy and her husband Chris Porter, and Kerry Kobashi; her adoring granddaughters, Emily and Sophie Porter; and her caring brother, Kenji Kawamura.
Hiroko's talents were many, and her interests reflected the depth of her cultural roots and the joy she found in life's simple pleasures. A talented seamstress, she crafted beautiful garments with the same care and attention that she dedicated to her family. Her love for Japanese music and dance was not only a personal passion but a gift she shared with others. Hiroko's grace as a dancer was evident in her performances of traditional Japanese dances, which were a testament to her heritage and spirit.
The Shamisen, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument, was another of Hiroko's artistic outlets. The melodies she played were a testament to her dedication to preserving and celebrating her cultural identity, even as she embraced her life in the United States.
In every aspect of her life, Hiroko held high standards and expectations, not only for herself but also for her family. She always put their needs above her own, guiding them with a gentle yet firm hand. Her selflessness and generosity were not just qualities but the essence of who she was. Her family, friends, and all who knew her will remember Hiroko for the love she gave so freely and the elegance with which she moved through the world.
Hiroko Kobashi's legacy is one of love, culture, and the profound impact of a life lived for others. Her spirit, embodied in her family's memories and the traditions she upheld, will continue to shine brightly. She was, and always will be, a treasured soul whose life was a beautiful dance of devotion and grace.