She married Blas P. Martinez in 1952 in Gifu, Japan where he was stationed with the U.S. Air Force. She left Japan and in the years to follow, Ayako became very independent being separated with Blas’ two tours to Vietnam and the Philippines and many stateside assignments.
Finally settling down in El Paso because Blas wanted her to be close to her sister Eddy. Ayako and her sister enjoyed meeting at their homes entertaining the small group of Japanese women who had married American military men at Ft. Bliss.
Ayako worked at Rockwell International for 11 years working on NASA’s Space Shuttle program but was mainly a homemaker. She loved doing her needlepoint, crochet, knitting, gardening and belonged to a Japanese folk-dance group.
Ayako was predeceased by her husband Blas, mother Tora Tawada, father Kinsaku Hirate, her brother Hiroichi and sisters Setsuko, Michiko, Sumiko, Yoshiko. Her sons Daniel, Joseph and grandson Joshua. Also left to cherish her memory is her son Charles A. Martinez (Gilda), daughter Linda M. Telford and Joanne Martinez (wife of Daniel). She is also survived by six grandchildren Jennifer McElhinny (Zach), Danny Martinez (Berenice), Paul Wyatt, Brandon Martinez (Rachel), Nathan Martinez and Zach Martinez (Erin). Nieces Judy McClung, Kathleen Flores and Paddy Tawada. Also 12 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson.
The family wishes to express their profound gratitude to Susan and Gabby, who provided loving care to Ayako especially in her final years.
There will be a private family memorial service at Funeraria del Angel Restlawn. Internment at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Services entrusted to Funeraria del Angel Restlawn.
