Ron & I are the same age and were involved with the same youth group at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church. I remember Mrs. Hirata with her knowing, patient smile hosting MYF meetings & gatherings at their house. She was a rock of gracious, consistent presence as we often bit off more than we could sanely handle as youth group leaders!

Pre-Covid the same group of ladies along with Kimi, enjoyed social hour together after Blaine services. Hard to believe how times have changed. Sharing in your sadness as we remember your lovely Mother.

To Kimi's family, I am so sorry to hear about her passing. Kimi was a long-time coworker of my dad (Oly Tenlen) at General Welding. I have fond memories of visiting with her when I was young, on days when my dad took my sister and I to work. I also have a lovely photo of her holding my older nephew after his birth. Kimi was a talented artist - for one of my parents' anniversaries, she sketched a portrait of my mom that we still have.

I wanted to get this down in writing how much understated strength I received from this sweet woman of God. I believe she understood hardship. When I was going through a difficult period in my life, even though she didn't know all the details, a kind look from her and a good word of friendship gave me hope. She blessed me with her smile, always remembering my name, always looking at me like I was the most important person in the room. I can only hope to be as kind. Blessings and love to you Ron, Donna, Gwen, & Curtis.

Kimi was a very special lady indeed! Her kind smile and deep faith will always be remembered at Blaine Memorial UMC. Thank you for sharing all the beautiful stories and photos of her life. We would love to see some of her artwork some day:) 
With sympathy and love, David and Pam Yorozu

My name is Brian Nishikawa , I am Auntie Kimi's nephew . Her younger sister Jane Nishikawa's son. I always remember Auntie being happy, smiling, not saying too much, and always busy making people happy. I have a memory that still brings a smile to my face that I would like to share. I think I was about 13 or 14 and I got to go golfing with Mom and Dad and Auntie and Uncle. I don't remember too much about the round except for one moment. It was the middle of the round and Uncle was teeing off. He took a mighty lash at the ball, and I had never seen such a big slice! We all silently watched the ball sail through one or maybe two fairways. I sheepishly looked at my feet pretending I didn't see it. That's when Auntie cried out "GOLL DANG DID YOU SEE THAT BALL CURVE ??!!!!" It has been almost forty years and I still can't think of this without laughing out loud! My deepest condolences to all my cousins and their families. Auntie was truly a wonderful lady. 

"Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy."
- Eskimo saying

May you feel comfort from the love of family and friends during this time.

Aloha,
Heidi (friend of Donna and Mark)

Beautiful Tribute for a wonderful woman!

Warm Regards,

Paul Johnson & Family

I've known Kimi for about 60 years since her daughter Donna was my good friend since kindergarten. For years I've gone to the Hirata house for New Year's and other occasions and Kimi has always been so welcoming to me, greeting me with a bowl of steaming hot ozoni and a smile when I showed up. Kimi was truly interested in her children's friends and asked us how we were, what we've been up to, and has witnessed all our milestones while growing up from children to adults. I feel truly blessed to have known Kimi all these years and know she is missed by her family and friends.

PSALM 23 (NASB): The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. Thou dost prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; Thou hast anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows. Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

"Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on, and cherished memories never fade because a loved one's gone. Those we love can never be more than a thought apart, for as long as there is memory, they'll live on in the heart." - Mary Alice Ramish