Matsuko Strausbaugh

Matsuko Tanahara Strausbaugh was born on February 20th,1938, to Kinzer and Nto Tanahara in Motobu, Okinawa part of the Ryukyu Islands South of Japan and passed away on October 21st, 2023, in Springfield, Missouri. She was the fifth of seven children and lived her early years in the throes of World War II, of which she told stories of having to live in caves and eat whatever vegetation that could be found. Eko was a tenacious survivor who worked hard all her life to provide for her family. In the early 60's, she met and married Frank Strausbaugh while he was stationed with the Army in Okinawa. Their union was blessed with two sons, William and Ricky. Eko bravely left her family and the only life she had ever known to move to Spring Lake, North Carolina with her husband.
Her relentless and determined spirit enabled her to survive and thrive in North Carolina regardless of her inability to speak English and Frank's frequent, long tours of duty that left her in sole charge of her family. She became a Naturized Citizen in 1970 and then began studying for her cosmetology license. Undeterred by the challenges this presented, she earned her certificate and worked as a cosmetologist for over 40 years. Eko had non-stop energy and was dedicated to her work. She would dress to the T for work. She prided herself on her appearance and would not be seen at work without her nails emblazed with color, make-up vigorously applied, hair in the current style and color, and clothes in the fashion of the day. She was well loved by her clients and received many awards and accolades while working for the JCPenney Salon at the Cross Creek Mall in Fayetteville, North Carolina and JCPenney Salon at the Battlefield Mall in Springfield, Missouri. After the death of her husband, her sons moved her to Springfield, Missouri where she continued working until she was 81 years old.
Eko had a soft spot in her heart for animals and always found it difficult when she lost one of her beloved pets (Blacky, Peewee, Peanut, Pecan, Sweet Pea and Tiny to name a few). She was strong willed and spirited (some would say stubborn). You were never going to get away with paying for the check when out to dinner. Eko was an excellent cook and loved hosting dinners featuring traditional Okinawan style foods for birthdays and special occasions. No one will ever be able to duplicate her gyozas, stir fry, or secret sauces. She was steadfast and unwavering in her love and devotion to her family and would do anything to help them. She especially enjoyed attending school and sporting events that her grandchildren were involved in.
Eko is survived by her son William and daughter-in-law Wanda, her son Ricky and daughter-in-law Laura, her granddaughter Hope Strausbaugh and fiancé Andrew Lofgren, and her grandson Jay Strausbaugh. Eko taught us much through her words and actions and will be greatly missed.