Kathleen Murakami

Kathleen MURAKAMI

1931 - 2023

Chisato Kathleen Murakami, 91, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2023. She was born in Seattle, Washington, to Kakuichi and Shizue Watabayashi, the youngest of three girls. At the age of 11, Kathleen and her parents were incarcerated at the Minidoka (Idaho) internment camp, and later to Tule Lake (California).

In 1951, Kathleen married Washin "Wash" Murakami, with whom she had six children. She was a loving, caring, and generous person, and made others feel welcomed. She enjoyed cooking, reading, Japanese doll-making, and learning about her heritage. Overall, she had an inner beauty and she enjoyed beautiful things, such as orchids, peacocks, and angels.

Kathleen loved and had a strong  belief in God and Jesus. She enjoyed Bible study, volunteered at her church, and touched others through her faith.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, Wash, and sisters Chizuko Rosemary Nakao/Sansom and Chiyo Iwakiri. She is survived by her children Jerry, Reise (Arbee) Chambers, John, Mark (Judy), Chris, and Rick (Julie); five grandchildren,  and  six  great  grandchildren.

A private memorial service and Celebration of Life are being planned at a future date.

Donations may be made in her name to Densho (Seattle), Bridge Disability Ministries (Bellevue), or a church of your choice.

Please share memories, photos, and condolences on the Tribute Wall, located above.

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