In Celebration of

Mary Masae Yamada (nee Okuma)

August 20, 1926 - October 3, 2022

At age 96, St Joseph’s Health Centre on October 3, 2022.

Loved and will be deeply missed by her children: Janet, Nancy (Mike Peng), Karen (Jim Kobayashi) and grandchildren Bryan, Kevin (Cindy).

Predeceased by her husband Takeo Yamada and sister Dorothy Kagawa. Mary was born in Vancouver, BC and after WWII, relocated to Toronto. She was an elementary school teacher in Toronto and enjoyed travelling, pottery, sumi-e painting and spending time with friends and family.

Our family extends gratitude to the health care team at St Joseph’s Health Centre and Runnymede Health Centre for their support and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Joseph’s Health Centre (Toronto) or the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, would be greatly appreciated.

Guestbook

(5 of 10)

Jane Nakagawa

Entered October 5, 2022

With deepest sympathy. Your mother will be remembered and missed.
I cherish our long family friendship spanning 3 generations.

Michi Kobayashi

Entered October 5, 2022

So sorry to hear about your mom’s (grandmother’s, mother-in-law’s) passing. I know you were anticipating her coming home after her prolonged stay in the hospital and rehab centre. May you be comforted by the many years of memories you now have. My condolences to all of you. Michi, Ellen & Emily

Peter and Cath

Entered October 5, 2022 from MI

We have so many fond memories of Auntie Mary - such a creative lady, always had a smile on her face, good sense of humor and a kind heart.

Your mom will be missed...thinking of you all at this sad time.

xoxo,
Peter & Cath

Gayle Cali (Family Friend)

Entered October 7, 2022 from Brampton

Edited version:
So sorry to hear of the recent passing of Mary, your mother & grandmother.

Mary was a wonderful, friendly, talented, quiet person. Generous with her time, kindness and always pleasant demeanour.

She and her sister Dorothy were very good friends of my Mom, Miyeko & her sister Ayako, since childhood growing up in Vancouver. I enjoyed many visits with her and taking to her visit our Mom at functions @ Momiji.

My sincere condolences to you family at this time.

Gayle Cali ( and on behalf my late mother, her dear friend, Miyeko Sugamori.)

Teri Yamada (niece/cousin)

Entered October 7, 2022 from Collingwood

Janet, Nancy & Karen,

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I will always have fond memories of a very kind and gentle Auntie Mary.

Teri