On April 20, we lost our beloved Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother, Tomiyo Nawata.
Tomiyo was 102 years old when she passed from this earth. She was the second of seven children to parents, Misao Niino and Yoshimatsu Sasaki. Born and raised on a dairy farm in Soledad, Tomi loved the outdoors. When her father became ill, the family moved to Japan for a short time in her teens. A year later, Tomi returned to the US and worked as a domestic helper where she met Kenichi Nawata, delivering groceries. They married and settled in El Cerrito, building a new home and business before being relocated to Denver during WWII. Upon their return to El Cerrito, Ken and Tomi owned and operated County Line Cleaners for over 65 years in El Cerrito.
She was married to Kenichi for over 70 years until he passed away in 2008. Together, they had 4 children – Kayko (Jim), Albert (Barbara), Jeannie (Bob) and Jackie who all still live in the Bay Area. She is also survived by her Grandchildren- Joey (Diemay), Julie, Mark (Pauline), Anne (Chris), Nancy (Wayne), Joanne, Debbie (Ryder) and Amy and her Great Grandchildren- Priscilla, Kenji, Kai, Ryo, Peyton, Trevor, Taylor, Megan, Gracie, Dani, Jenny, Anthony, Emma, Aiden, Evan, Amanda and Aria.
Tomiyo’s demeanor was sweet, quiet and selfless. Her family was her passion and delight. From her, we learned the value of hard work and the importance of family. She was always fun at heart and a bit silly which was never more evident than in the circa 1920’s photo where everyone was told to be serious and somber — and the photo forever captured our Tomiyo grinning from ear to ear. This is how we choose to remember her.
Tomiyo was a tiny woman with a larger than life character who was thoroughly loved and respected by all who knew her. We will miss her terribly but will remember her always.
Private family services will be held. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local Salvation Army – an organization that supported Tomiyo when she needed it.
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