KANASHIRO, Minako
Posted: April 17th, 2019
KANASHIRO
Our family sadly announces the passing of our Mother Minako Kanashiro on Sunday, April 14th 2019.
Mom was born in New Westminster, BC to Kazuyoshi and Kikuye Hirotsu in 1932 and she married Jim Kanashiro in November 1952. Mom was employed at the Fashion Shop and later worked for the PFRA before opening Kelly’s, her Japanese goods store in North Lethbridge in 1974.
Like many people of her generation, Mom had experienced difficult hardships in her youth but never complained. Mom’s life was dedicated to her family and her home was always our focal point for family gatherings where you could count on a fabulous dinner and homemade dessert. Mom was a consummate cook and a prolific cookie baker. As well, Mom was a doting great grandmother and spent a lot of time with all her great grandchildren, often times “spoiling” them.
Another passion of Mom’s was the casino. Mom took many trips with her children and grandchildren to Vegas and she always looked forward to her weekly casino and lunch outings with her dear friend and neighbor, Doreen Gyorkos.
Mom was also a prolific knitter and her extended family have many keepsakes to remember her.
Mom was predeceased by her parents, her loving husband Jim, daughter Gwen and brother Tak as well as many brother and sister in laws. Leaving to mourn her passing are her children, Kevin, Kelly (Stephanie), Sherry (Keith), Lisa (Dominic) and Carla, sisters Yuki (Dick), Leslie, brother Rick; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, brother and sister in laws.
Mom was selfless, she always put the needs and interests of others first and she will be deeply missed leaving a vast void in our lives, more than we can express.
A celebration of Life will be held at the Lethbridge Signature Sandman (The Lodge) on Tuesday, April 23rd 2019, at 2pm. Parking is available at the rear of the hotel.
Flowers and Koden are gratefully declined. For those who wish, donations can be made to Parkinson Canada in Alberta or the Canadian Diabetes Association.
To send a condolence, please visit www.salmonandsons.ca
I am sorry to hear of the loss of your Mom. My heartfelt sympathies to all of you. Cherish the many memories you created with her.
Gwen, we are becoming our mothers. All the love given and memories made over the years make us who we are – daughters.
I just learned of your Mom’s passing and to the family please accept my condolences. Your Mom was one of my favorites and I will mill her as when we spoke she was always kind and lots of laughs.