Kimiko Kitaoka

Kimiko Kitaoka, 94, passed away on February 27, 2021, after a courageous nine-week battle against Covid-related illnesses. Born in Sacramento to Seiki and Hatsuko (Ohara) Okabayashi in 1926, she spent her youth in Kochi, Japan, and later settled in Los Angeles upon her marriage to Namio Kitaoka in 1948. A highly-organized perfectionist, her attention to detail and dexterity led her to be regarded as a skillful seamstress, amazing quilter, and respected electronic technician at TRW/Northop. After retirement, she enjoyed traveling around the world. The family thanks Dr. Thomas Kanegae for his many years of compassionate care for her.

Predeceased by Namio and two brothers (Seiro and Kensuke), she leaves behind her children and son-in-law: Steven Yusei and Aileen (Werner) Willoughby; grandsons Keith and Brandon Kitaoka, and Jason (Alexandra Ochi) and Kevin Willoughby; great grandson Jakob Kitaoka; brother Shigeru (Masako) Okabayashi; and many nieces, nephews and other relatives. There will be a private family service at a later date.