Kimiko Yogi never sought the spotlight but worked behind the scenes so others could shine. The longtime Gardena resident passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on August 5. She was 91. Born in Los Angeles to Takanori and Tomo Yasuda, she grew up in East Hollywood before being incarcerated at Manzanar. After returning to Los Angeles, she graduated from Belmont High School. In 1955, she married her next-door neighbor, David Yogi, and the couple settled in Gardena. Family members will cherish memories of her generous and devoted care for their well-being. Friends will recall her compassion for a series of family dogs. Neighbors will remember her riding with her husband on the tandem bicycle he built. She loved travel and visited countries throughout Europe and Asia, and all 50 states.
Her husband of 65 years predeceased her. She is survived by children, Linda Ford (fiancé Mitch Ikemoto), Mike (Judi Kitano), and Lori; grandchildren, Katherine, Matthew and Daniel Yogi; brother, Kiyoshi Yasuda (Jeannie); sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Kazuko and Jimmy Okazaki, Ken and Joy Yogi, Miyoko Yogi; and 18 nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held at Gardena Valley Baptist Church on September 27, 11 a.m. (aloha/resort casual).