Joan “Joni” Takako Fujita peacefully passed away at home on June 6, 2024. The youngest of six daughters born to Takeo and Aiko Fujita, she was raised in Boyle Heights and attended Maryknoll, Bishop Conaty, and Cal State LA. She was a devoted mother who successfully juggled single parenthood with her career as an elementary school educator. Creative, warm, and spirited, Joan had a knack for befriending many kindred souls who shared her interests in dance, music, art, bookmaking, and quilting. While a teacher herself, she was also a passionate lifelong student who never stopped learning and growing.
Joan is survived by her daughter, Simone; her dog, Kiba; her sisters, Yo (Mary), Pat, and Penny; her nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. Her memorial will be held on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Maryknoll (St. Francis Xavier Chapel). She requested that those who attend wear bright colors.