Kiku Shimazaki passed away peacefully at the age of 100 on Christmas morning.  Born to Toi and Masataro Shimazaki on March 10, 1918, she grew up with her brother, Tamotsu, and sister, Shinko, in San Francisco.  During WWII she and her parents were relocated to Topaz. Before the war’s end, Kiku was able to leave Topaz to join her sister in Chicago. After the war, she did clerical work as part of the American Occupation of Japan and eventually settled in Berkeley.  She worked for Western Pioneer Insurance Co for 35 years.  Kiku enjoyed crafts, crocheting, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.  She was a member of Berkeley Methodist United Church. In 2003 she moved to Piedmont Gardens, continuing her active lifestyle. She is survived by nieces Liz (Ken) Nakamura, Janet (Steve) Teel, Anne (Danny) Ziliak, and Lois (John) Shimazaki and their families.  We will miss her loving, fun, kind, and generous spirit.  The family is especially grateful to the staff at Piedmont Gardens for their care and support.  On Feb. 2, 2019 at 11:00 am, a memorial service will be held at Berkeley Methodist United Church, 1710 Carleton St.  Gifts in her memory may be made to BMUC.