Obituary

Helen Kuwashima, age 85, passed away on June 23, 2017, surrounded by members of her loving family. Beloved wife of the late Hiroshi “Hiro”. Preceded in death by sister and brother, Florence Taguchi and Tomio Bingo, and her special dogs, Tammy and Pebbles. Loving sister of Frances (Albert Hirai) and Mary Bingo. Dear aunt of Joyce Naka (Allan), Ken Taguchi (Debbie Evans), Sandy Marina (Dr. Rick) and Gordon Hirai (Karen). Leaving behind her cherished fellow Na Kapuna Ukulele Club members and special friends. Following her retirement after 40 years with Del Farm and National Tea, Helen spent the next 20 years nurturing her passion, the Na Kapuna Ukelele Club. She founded the group barely recognizing an ukulele. Today, the group has gained fame in the Chicagoland area and is in high demand to perform Hawaiian music and hula dance. Visitation on Saturday, July 29, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the Church of Christ Presbyterian, 5846 N. Spaulding Ave., Chicago, followed by a memorial service at 3:00 pm. Aloha or casual attire. Info – Lakeview Funeral Home, 773-472-6300 or www.LakeviewFuneralHome.com.