SARUWATARI May

1931 ~ 2014
Mom was born on May 2, 1931 in Sapperton, New Westminster, British Columbia, to Hide and Kohei Nishiyama. As the youngest she was spoiled by her parents, her brothers Jack and Mac Nishiyama and her sisters Betty Tanigami, Fumi Sugimoto and Kaz Sugimoto. Mom moved to Raymond, Alberta after the war where she married her sweetheart and next door neighbor, Sakae Saruwatari, on February 19, 1955. They had 5 children Richard, Philip, Joy, Cary and Gaye. She was the honorary auntie and grandma to many. While in Raymond, Mom enjoyed working at Melchin Motors, local grocery stores and, finally, the Raymond Care Centre. She was also a solid partner to Dad as he farmed and operated his repair business. They retired in 1994 and moved to Lethbridge the following year. In retirement, she was a busy and active grandma, attending countless hockey and soccer games and school functions near and far. Over the years, Mom always enjoyed her regular shopping excursions with her sister Fumi. Mom is survived by Dad; kids Rick (Wendy), Phil (Tammy), Joy (Darcy), Cary (Eileen) and Gaye (Kalvin); Grandchildren Jeff (Katie), Justin (Desiree), Mitchell, Brendon, Meygan, Terra (Neil), Dana (Ellen), Patrick, Candice (David), Matthew, Leah and Jada; Great Grandchildren Weston, Damon, Aria, Talia, Jayden, Mya, Cearra, Emma and coming soon Baby Girl Saruwatari. Unfortunately, after a hard fought battle against cancer, Mom passed away on November 24, 2014. She always kept her shining spirit, beautiful smile and gracious nature throughout. We would like to thank Dr. Shukkoor, Celeste, Lorelei and all of the fantastic staff at the St. Michael’s Palliative Care Centre for all of their compassion and support during this difficult time. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, November 28, 2014 at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610-4 Street South, Lethbridge, AB. In lieu of flowers, we would ask that donations be made to the St. Michael’s Palliative Care Centre, 1400-9th Ave South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1J 4V. Send condolences at www.mbfunerals.com.