Toshiko Yamamoto

Toshiko "Tee" Yamamoto passed away peacefully at home on December 20, 2024. She was 101 years old. She was a lifelong resident of Watsonville, except during World War II when she was interned in Poston, AZ.

Tee was born on July 14, 1923, to her loving parents, Isekichi and Seki Mine. She attended local schools, graduating from Watsonville High School in 1941. She met and married Masatatsu "Bob" Yamamoto and together they raised their children and shared 52 years until his passing.

Tee worked as a housekeeper until she began working as a secretary for the Watsonville Buddhist Temple. She continued working there for 19 years until her retirement. She was very active at the Temple in the Adult Buddhist Association, as a Sunday School teacher, and helping with their many activities. She was an avid bowler and was in many bowling leagues. She was an excellent cook, loved to sew, quilt, and play Bingo.

Tee is survived by her children, Carol (Fields) Gunsett, and Don Yamamoto. She also leaves behind her grandson Kellen Yamamoto. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob, and her siblings; Kimino Kizuka, Masayo Shimamoto, Sueko Okamura, Tom Mine and Bill Mine. Tee will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 11:00 am, at the Watsonville Buddhist Temple – 423 Bridge Street, Watsonville. The burial will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025 at 11:00 am at Pajaro Valley Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Watsonville Buddhist Temple. Mehl's Colonial Chapel has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Published in The Pajaronian · February 5, 2025