Patty Yamashita, (1959 - 2014) - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

Let the memory of Patty be with us forever

54 years old
Born on December 16, 1959
Passed away on July 5, 2014

This Memorial website is dedicated in memory of our loved one, Patty Yamashita, born on December 16, 1959 and passed away on July 5, 2014. We will remember her forever.

If you have a favorite story about Patty, please click on the "Stories" tab above and share it with us.

The Funeral Service will be on July 17 at 11:00 AM at St. Monica Catholic Church on Mercer Island. Please dress approriately.

The Memorial Service/Reception will be on July 27 from 1:00 - 5:00 PM at The Golf Club at Newcastle. Business casual attire is requested.

Tributes

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August 13, 2014

Hi Mom. Good evening to you. Im back from Dallas and getting back into the flow of life. I learned a lot over the weekend. I hope that you are doing well up there and hope that you like what you see out of your son. Im doing my best down here. Please keep me strong.

David

August 11, 2014

Hi Mom. How are you tonight? It's my last night here in Dallas. It's been a great experience. I really feel as though I will look back on this trip as a re-defining experience. I feel myself getting back into the swing of life. Advocare is exactly where I need to be...you and God showed it to me this weekend. Thank you for that.

Always be joyful
Never stop praying
Be thankful in all circumstances
1 Thess 5:16

Thank you Mom. I love you so much. David

August 9, 2014

Hi Mom, good evening to you. I'm here on my second night in Dallas for Advocare Success School. I thought about you a lot today during the event at Cowboy's Stadium. I was there, feeling the intensity and the weight of the moment, alongside my friends, and I just thought about how I miss you so much, but how I know you're watching over me, and for the first time since you passed I felt empowered to move forward with my life. I'm going to live in your memory and in your honor and just do the best I can to make you proud. I love you Mom. Goodnight.

"I love the Lord, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him for as long as I live." Psalm 116:1,2

August 8, 2014

First of all, thank you to Laurie for your kind words.

Hey Mom. I'm down here in Dallas for an Advocare event. National Success School at Cowboys Stadium. Well, it's called AT&T Stadium now. Anyway, this is pretty much the first time I've been on vacation without you. I remember all of the funny little things you used to do on vacation. You had so many little quirks that didn't really make any sense. But I miss the little things like that so much right now. I'm sitting here in my hotel room, thinking about all the good times that you and I shared. I miss you like crazy. This past week was so stressful in so many different ways. At times I could feel myself falling apart. Breaking in half. But I'm keeping it together with the help of friends and with some strength that I know you're sending me from above. I hope you can continue to take care of me. I love you Mom. Goodnight. David

August 4, 2014

I worked with Patty at Nintendo from 1990-1994. She was one strong little lady. I remember how serious and business-like her demeanor was, and that it could change in an instant when the smallest thing would crack her up. Her laughter was contagious! She went to bat for me on several occasions, for which I am still grateful. I remember how important it was to her to provide the best life possible for her family, and I can see that she accomplished that. I am so sad and so sorry for your loss.

August 2, 2014

Hi Mom, good afternoon to you. Today is a nice Saturday here in Bellevue. I'm getting ready to go to the gym with Chelsea, and then there's a family dinner at AD's. It'll be strange without you there...but we will carry on in your memory.

I still miss you so much. It still just seems impossible that you are gone. Sometimes I find it hard to see the fairness in all of this. Sometimes I feel like...life will never be the same. But there are more blessings to come. I know this because you've already sent me a few in the time you've been in Heaven.

"From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another." John 1:16

All the good things I receive come from Your hand. I shall never forget that. I may not see the next blessing on its way. Sorrow has a way of dimming my eyes to life's good things. But when I focus on You again, my vision clears. I remember all the wonderful things You have already given me and Your promises for eternity, and I am glad.

Thank You for never letting me forget how much You love me.

July 31, 2014

Hi Mom. Good afternoon to you. Hope you're doing well up there. You and God have put me in a position to succeed in these past few weeks and I want to thank you for that. I've been trying my best to be the person I've always wanted to become, in your honor. I see life a lot differently since you've been gone. In the time without you, I haven't always been perfect and some people are quick to let me know that. I appreciate their constructive criticisms because I know they want the best for me. Still, I feel that very few can truly see and understand the path I'm trying to take. Which is fine. So few of the greats were understood or accepted in their time. But they did what they had to do and that's my plan. Not that I'm a great but the point is that I don't feel the need to justify or explain myself to anybody...for the first time in my life. You understand where I'm trying to get to and so does God. That's all that matters.

I stumbled across a prayer that I've been reciting for you for the past couple of days. I know you've heard me but I'll post it on here for anybody who is interested.

"For I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow." Jeremiah 31:13

"Just as You turned the mourning of Jacob's people into joy, You've turned my sorrow into happiness again, Lord. I cannot forget the loved one I lost, but I know You've given me these years of life as more than a time of extended suffering. There's still good to do in Your name.

You once saved me from my sins, and now You've delivered me from overwhelming grief, Lord. Sad living is not what You had in mind for believers. Blessings for those who love You have always been Your plan.

Thank You for every blessing in my life, including my days with the one I love. Help me share this new joy with others for the rest of my life." Amen.

I love you Mom.

July 30, 2014

Hi Mom. How are you up there? Just sitting here downstairs where you always used to be roaming around at about this hour. Actually, this was about the time that I'd tell you to start wrapping it up and to get ready to go to sleep. I tried to get you on a schedule. It wasn't easy but we were getting better towards the end there. I've been getting back into the swing of life but it's just not the same without you. I'm doing my best because I know you're watching over me at all times. I feel you protecting me as well...know that your divine interventions are felt. I miss you Mom, I love you.

David

July 29, 2014

Hey Mom. Good evening to you. Tonight I went back to LA Fitness and saw a lot of my basketball friends for the first time since you passed. It was really nice to see them and they all sent their regards to me and the family. I dropped my friend off after we left the gym and he lives really close to Overlake. I caught a glimpse of the hospital and I almost broke down. I don't know when I will be able to drive past that place. That's kind of the last step for me.

Anyway, we all miss you down here. We are carrying on as best we can. Dad is going back to work tomorrow. That means I'm in last place. Mom, we had such a special bond. And we still do. But it's just hard sometimes. Anyway, I'm trying my best to carry on. Goodnight Mom. I love you. David

July 28, 2014

R.I.P. Patty

July 28, 2014

Hi Mom. It's Monday morning. Yesterday was your memorial service at Newcastle. It was so beautiful. Auntie Denise and Dad did an amazing job organizing it. I know you were so proud. So happy to see all of the people there to celebrate your life and remember how great you were. Thanks for that, Mom.

Anyway, I'm sitting here at the kitchen table with Nana, Dad, and A.D., reminiscing on the good times. Thanks for the memories, Mom. I will talk to you soon.

David

July 25, 2014

Hi Mom. How are you tonight? Today was your burial at Gethsamane. As you saw, it was quite sad. But it's over and it's done. You are in your final resting place now. Right next to Grandpa. Keep him company. Slowly we are all getting back into the swing of life down here. I am doing the best I can to make you proud. Just watch over me as much as you can and protect me when I need it. Thanks Mom. I love you. David

July 25, 2014

Hiro, David and Lauren.
I worked with Patty at Sullivan-Payne in Seattle (my first job) and then Nintendo of America in Redmond. I just heard the sad news about her this morning. I am so sorry for your loss. Hiro, you should be so proud of the outstanding kids that you and Patty raised. We lost contact with your family a while back as we seemed to only exchange Christmas cards. We thoroughly enjoyed watching your kids grow via those cards and again I see through the testimonies from all that you created a loving and caring family. I'll miss Patty...she was a special lady.

July 24, 2014

Hi Mom. Good evening. Well, tomorrow is your burial. I really wish we could keep you here with us. Right where you are sitting right now, on the kitchen counter, next to Angel. You watch over your kitchen dutifully and keep us all in line. Will we take care of the kitchen when you are gone? I will do it. I know it's just selfish of me to want to have you here in the house. I know that Grandpa wants you to be next to him. You two need to spend some time together anyway. Maybe I will refuse to let your urn be buried tomorrow morning...

A friend sent me this prayer that you can say for loved ones who have passed on. I've said it a couple of times tonight, but I'll write it here:

Oh my God, oh Thou forgiver of sins, bestower of gifts, dispeller of afflictions.

Verily, I beseech Thee to forgive the sins of such as have abandoned the physical garment and have ascended to the spiritual world.

Oh my Lord, purify them from trespasses, dispel their sorrows, and change their darkness into light. Cause them to enter the garden of happiness, cleanse them with the most pure water, and grant them to behold Thy splendors on the loftiest mount.

Basically the message in this prayer is asking God to take care of you in Heaven. I know you are happy and joyful right now...I send this prayer in hoping that it makes you even happier.

I love you Mom. Tomorrow is your day. If I don't hijack you.

David

July 23, 2014

Hi Mom. Good evening. I'm about to start writing my excerpt for your memorial service program. I'm trying to think of what to say given the constraints of the program--it has to be somewhat short and succinct in order to fit onto the page. I also need to come up with a few words to say at your memorial service as well. It'll come to me. I'm trying to lead my life as if you are watching me at all times--because you are. I want you to be proud of what you see. I'm trying to cut out wasted time and frivolous activities as much as possible--I want to be focused and efficient in my efforts to make you proud. I love you Mom and I miss you. Goodnight. David

July 22, 2014

I'd like to first thank everyone who has left a message for my mom or for my family on this page. Your words are so greatly appreciated.

Ok. Hi Mom. Well, you came home tonight. You're with Angel (the dog) and overseeing the kitchen. It's so great to have you around. I honestly wish you could stay here forever. But that wouldn't be fair to the rest of your family. You need to be in a central location. Plus, you need to keep your dad company. Well, at least we have you here at home for two more days. I miss you Mom. Trying to stay busy down here but I think about you constantly. We'll all get by. I love you so much. David

July 21, 2014

Hi Mom. Good evening. I just saw your certificate and the letter of appreciation for giving the gift of sight to two people. I don't know why nobody told me about this certificate earlier and I'm sad I had to find out about it on this site. But anyway, wow! That's really amazing, Mom. What a generous donation that you gave. I'm so proud of you and so honored to be your son. Not just because of your donation, but for so many other reasons. I went to church today. Trying to put everything into perspective. It hasn't been easy but with each day I gain a bit more clarity. Thank you for continuing to lead me in the directions that I need to go. I'm doing the best I can down here, Mom. I miss you and I love you. Goodnight. David

July 21, 2014

Hi mom. On Sunday, I went to Bellevue Square with Auntie Michi and Obachan. I bought you a special present that I know you'll love, and it will keep us together forever. I can't give you the present until Thursday though, so be patient! I love you and I miss you. Gumma gumma.

July 21, 2014

To the Aratani family my sympathy on the loss of your little sister Patty. My prayers for all of you. I remember growing up on 16th Avenue and walking to Immaculate school with all of you...

July 20, 2014

Hi Mom. Well today was the Sakamoto Tournament and guess whose team took first place? Your husband. And guess whose team took 2nd? Your son. Mom...I know you sent some lucky bounces my way and Dad said the same thing about his round. I know you dropped some of those 15 foot putts that had no business going in based on how I struck them. I know you kept some of my drives in the fairway when they should've been way out of bounds. I felt myself making shots that I've never made before. Thank you for the intervention. Mom...your cousins were all talking about you today. How much they loved you and how much they miss you. We're all trying to carry on down here but it's just not the same without you. We will get to the place we need to eventually but we will always miss you. Goodnight Mom, thanks again for the lucky bounces today. I love you.

July 20, 2014

To Hiro, David and Lauren,

We are so sorry for your loss and we are thinking of you.

The "dinner club" years in the 1990's were such a fun time in our lives. Patty was a wonderful hostess and always did an incredible job when it was your turn to have us at your home, cooking enough food for about 25 people instead of 8! I was always a little intimidated by how perfect she kept your house. David and Lauren, we did not get to know you well, but I know your mother was very proud of you and it sounds as if you have grown into strong, successful adults. We will miss Patty, and will keep those happy thoughts of her forever.

Karen, John and Haley Pembroke

July 19, 2014

Hi Mom. Another night here at the house and it's weird you're not here cleaning up the kitchen or running the vacuum cleaner at really inappropriate times, like 1 in the morning. Today I hit about 200 golf balls at the range in preparation for the Sakamoto Tournament tomorrow. I'm just reminded of how you used to go every year and be so excited to see your cousins and other extended family members. Not gonna lie...I'm going to think about you before each and every shot I hit tomorrow. I hope I can win the whole thing for you Mom. Maybe you can send a few lucky bounces my way. Keep me out of the water and the long grass. I love you Mom. Goodnight.

July 18, 2014

Hi Mom. Well, today was your funeral. Not gonna lie, it wasn't easy. But the turnout was incredible and the support from our friends and family has been so appreciated. Your service was beautiful today. I hope you liked what you saw. We're all just down here missing you so much. But it's time to be strong and to carry on as best we can. I love you Mom, I miss you. David

July 17, 2014

Hi Mom. How are you? Tomorrow is your big day. I can't believe it will be the last time that I will get to see you. Actually, I sort of still can't believe this is all happening. It's going to be a sad day tomorrow...there is just no getting around that. I miss you a lot, Mom. I hope you like the speech I will give for you tomorrow. Goodnight and I love you.

July 17, 2014

Patty,

You always accepted me the way I was, goofy and crazy: your soul will be missed!

July 16, 2014

Hi Mom. I hope you are well tonight. I've spent most of today working on the speech I will give about you on Thursday. I can't wait. I hope you like it and I hope you are proud. Please don't get mad at me for the jokes that I put in there. The weather in Seattle has been especially warm, so we leave a lot of the windows open during the day. Well, I still hear your voice every night reminding me to shut all of the windows, lest any burglars gain easy access to our house. Thank you for teaching me this and many other lessons. I love you Mom. David

July 16, 2014

Our condolences to the Yamashita and Aratani families at the loss of Patty. I know she is heaven with Augie and his Notre Dame blanket. GO IRISH! Our prayers with be with all of you!

Matsudaira family

July 15, 2014

Hi Mom. Today was another sunny day in Seattle. I spent the day tying up loose ends for your events coming up. Tonight, Dad, Lauren and I finished going through our old boxes of photographs in search of pictures for your slideshow. We found some good ones. Your spirit shows through so clearly in every picture. Send me some of that spirit, mom. I need it right now. Goodnight, David

July 15, 2014

So sorry for your loss. She was always a happy and kind person. I will never forget that smile of hers. We know Patty will be terribly missed by all of you. Our thoughts and prayers are for both the Aratani and the Yamashita families.

July 14, 2014

Hi Mom. Just checking in with you for the night. Today was Remy's 1st birthday party. She is getting so big and she is so smart and friendly too. Rylen was talking about you today. He doesn't quite understand that you are gone. It's as if he still feels your spirit. I do too. I saw more signs today of your joy and your guidance for me. It is so appreciated. Please keep them coming. Oh yeah, your obit ran today. Dad did an amazing job at it. Everybody loves it. He really knocked it out of the park. You were/are so lucky to have such an amazing husband. I can only aspire to be half the partner that he is to you. Ok Mom. Rest well. Talk to you tomorrow. Love, David

July 14, 2014

Hey Patty, as great as the weekend was, it just wasn't the same without you.

July 13, 2014

Hi Mom. Just checking in with you for the night. Wondering what you're doing up there. I hope you're relaxing and catching up with Grandpa. But also I pray that you are watching over your family and protecting us. Today I went to Nordstrom to get a present for Remy's birthday party, which is tomorrow. Oh, I also went back to the gym for my first workout since you passed. I can't lie, I spent a lot of my workout thinking about you. We all miss you down here, Mom. Please keep sending us your little signs here and there. I love you. David

July 12, 2014

To the Yamashita & Aratani families, my heartfelt condolences to you all. I pray with all the support from families & friends you will find the strength to carry on.

July 12, 2014

Hi Mom. I just got back from the mall. I took Chelsea to get some attire for your upcoming events. She found some Steve Madden shoes that look amazing on her. I think you would see them and comment on how great she looks in them. We're all trying down here to carry on. I am trying really hard. I sent out some job applications today. I'm hearing your voice constantly telling me to "just get your foot in the door." I'm doing my best to be the son that makes his mother proud. I love you mom.

July 12, 2014

Dear Angel Patty, Looking at it from a different perspective now, do you now see that "Get down on it" (Kool and Gang) is NOT a proper wedding processional choice...? Although I did greatly enjoy your choreography. Just wondering. Oh, how I will miss our chats and your outrageous and hilarious ways. Love you straight from the heart gf.

July 12, 2014

Patty, I've been thinking about you today and remembered the time we kidnapped you on your birthday. We called your mom ahead of time so she wouldn't worry when you didn't come home from a babysitting job you had that night. We even put a pillowcase over your head! I think we had driven about 3 blocks before you figured out who it was because we couldn't stop laughing! :)

July 12, 2014

Hey Patty -
Just wanted to let you know that I am comforted to see your spirit in the kids. Lauren is thoughtful and funny. David is friendly and kind. And, I smile when think of your nickname - Mama Yama. So fitting.

July 11, 2014

Dear Patty, thank you for your lovely message on Facebook. It breaks my heart that we won't be able to visit in this world anymore. You are a lovely, lovely lady and I have enjoyed our times together. God bless you and your wonderful family.

July 11, 2014

Hi Mom. Just checking in with you for the night. Today I got a suit for your two big events coming up. I think you'll be impressed with how I look! Also, we picked up some shelves today for the spare bedroom and we're going to install them probably tomorrow. Just trying to clean up the house a little in a way that you would like. There are interesting signs that you are leaving us throughout the day and I want you to know that I take solace in them, so please keep them coming. It's just nice to know that you're in a better place and you are trying your best to help me, Lauren, and dad push through. Goodnight, mom. I love you.

July 11, 2014

Patty, we went to Emerson, South Shore and Rainier Beach together. I also lived just down the street from your parents as a young adult for a few years. You had such a kind spirit. Know that there are many who will miss you. I have read through the other messages left for you and I can see how much you are loved. God bless you and make sure you keep watching over your family. They really need you right now.

July 11, 2014

Hey Patty. I just heard on the news that 7-11 is giving away slurpees today. Remember the days of going to 7-11 for slurpees. Think I'll get one for the both of us.

July 11, 2014

Although I didn't know Patty well, it was obvious she was just a beautiful person, and she has a beautiful family. I pray you all find peace in this sad time and comfort in the knowledge she will always be with you.

July 10, 2014

Hi Mom. How are you? I'm here at home with Chelsea. She's eating dinner and studying. I'm trying to clean up around the house the way you always liked it. We're all down here and we miss you. Keep us strong and protect us. You were the best mom a guy could ever ask for.

July 10, 2014

Patty may you rest in peace and may you continue to remembered for the kind heart that you possessed.

July 10, 2014

I am sending Blessings, Love and Light to Patty and her entire family knowing that she is really just a thought away. When you least expect it you will feel her presence or sense it in some other way. Our loved ones never really leave us. Patty was one of those people that I met at South Shore Middle School and Rainier Beach High School. Her spirit was strong and bright then and still is even in her absence.

July 10, 2014

My thoughts and prayers go out to Hiro, David and Lauren and to all of the Yamashita and Aratani family members and extended family and friends. At times like this, I've always leaned into the following Scripture passage: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18) I pray that you will will find comfort during this very difficult time.

July 10, 2014

Patty was my Manager for a few years at T-Mobile. I remember most her bringing chips and home made salsa from home to our meetings. Patty knew I loved her salsa so she started just bringing in some for just me on occasions. She was a very nice and kind person and I am extremely sad that she is gone so young. My thoughts an prayers go to her family and how difficult this is.

July 10, 2014

Patty was a beautiful woman inside and out. I considered her a second mother to me, who I owe introducing me to my first best friend and soon after, neighbor of over 18 years.

Patty, I cannot thank you enough for caring for Milena and I like your own children growing up starting at ages 4 & 6.

You were always so much more gentle at cleaning our wounds, and applying bandaids from all of our many falls off our bikes, razor scooters, roller blades, wagons etc. and never failed to make any situation comical.

You helped ease my first sleepover experience at your home and always welcomed Milena and I with open arms. I think my dad always ate as much of your homemade popcorn the next day as Lauren, Milena, and I combined the night before.

You were not only a good friend to my parents but also a teacher of how to let your children "spread their wings." (being the oldest, I owe a lot of my freedom to you!)

You were always such a huge supporter and selfless individual to Lauren, David, and even my family in more ways that can be expressed.

You always hosted the largest parties on the block, made feasts of delicious food, and were so gracious to have my family over year after year.

Although many hearts are aching to hear your life has been taken so soon, you are survived by all of those you have touched and the memories that we will forever share. You will never be forgotten.

May you forevermore be filled with only happiness, laughter and joy Auntie Patty.

July 10, 2014

Hey Patty. Thinking of you, and I miss you much.

July 10, 2014

Hi mom. David and I ate lunch at the Nordstrom Grill today. It definitely wasn't the same without you, but I know you were happy to see your two kids spending time together (and not fighting!). We love you and we think about you everyday.

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Recent Tributes

December 16, 2023

❤️HAPPY BIRTHDAY PATTY❤️I love you sis and I sure miss you

July 5, 2023

Another year without you, Mom.
Dad, David, and I will be at Vince's tonight eating your favorite bacon and garlic pizza. I know you'll be there with us.
I miss you so much.
Take good care of yourself and Malcolm in Heaven.
Love you always.

July 5, 2023

I miss you, Patty. So many fun times and laughter. I got a new Rivian pickup which is electric and fun to drive. You would have loved it.

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Gallery

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Patty's 'formality' with her attire

July 25, 2014

Patty gave me one of my favorite lines ever...

We worked together both at Sullivan-Payne and Nintendo. Patty always dressed nicely, regardless of the dress code. I dressed nicely at Sullivan-Payne as it was required, Nintendo was a bit more relaxed so I dressed appropriately, which is to say I migrated to jeans and t-shirts. I always wore t-shirts from vacations and various places I had been.

One day I came in with one of my shirts and probably it was a bit obnoxious looking and Patty said...

"Do you own any shirts that you can't read?" I probably was ticked at the time but I have shared that story so many times when someone comments on a shirt of mine. It was classic as was she!!

Patty's Kindness and Generosity

July 11, 2014

Patty married into our family and we have all been blessed as a result. She made sure to include us at family gatherings - birthday parties, Christmas eve. It was important to her to keep the kids connected to us.

Once I admired a scarf Patty wore. Without my knowing, she went out to buy me one (because she was worried it would sell out before I had a chance to shop). A simple act of kindness and genorsity.

A more selfless act occured when my mother (Obachan) was sick a couple years ago, Patty would take the time to vist and cheer her up with stories of what she was doing, what the kids were doing and just having conversations that did not focus on health issues. A great distraction for my mother. And, Patty would bring or cook tasty dinners (she was a wonderful cook) to encourage my mom to eat. When she found out mom liked her chex mix... she would make and deliver multiple ziplock bags full. Same with cookies. Patty brushed off any thanks saying it was nothing. It was not and is not nothing - I will never forget her care and kindness.

Miss you Patty...

Because a $500 Gift Card Solves Everything

July 7, 2014

This May, my boyfriend and I took a trip to Las Vegas and I had spent more money than I had originally planned. When I got home, I seeked my mom's advice about finances. After crying to my mom about the stress of money, my mom thought she could remedy my financial stress by offering me her $500 gift card to Nordstrom.

"Lauren, it's OK. I have a $500 gift card to Nordstrom that you can have!"

"Thanks, mom, but a $500 gift card won't pay off my car payment and my credit card bill for the month."

This is just testament to my mom's selflessness, big heart, and sometimes hilarious ways of solving life's problems.

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