Shirley Yamamoto

Shirley "Yasue" Yamashita-Yamamoto was born on June 10, 1934 in Tacoma, Washington to Iroku and Some Yamashita. The youngest of 9 siblings, Shirley moved with the family back to Japan even as the US and Japan enter into World War II.

Returning to the United States in 1949, Shirley graduated from Caldwell High School. Her yearbooks showed a young lady who was very confident and popular being a member of the Student Council, Pep Club, Choir, and even a member of the Lettuce Bowl Queen’s court.

She met Tatsumi Yamamoto, the love of her life, on a blind date setup by her future brother-in-law Junji. Shirley and Tats were married in Caldwell, Idaho and moved to California to be near Tats’ parents. Shirley was a wonderful wife, mother, and hostess who, together with Tats, hosted many family get-togethers and New Years’ celebrations.

Later, Shirley and Tats decided to move back to their hometown roots and settled in Boise, Idaho. The family spent a lot of time back and forth to California to see their eldest son, Brent and other relatives in California. Once their kids were out of the house, Shirley supported Tats in the development of the log cabin for their retirement years. A long commitment, the beautiful cabin continues to hold the memories of their hard work.

Unfortunately, Tats lost his fight against Parkinson's in 2012. With a condo in Eagle and a cabin in Cascade, Shirley consolidated her life and moved closer to her two boys in Santa Ana, California.

On July 12th, almost 12 years to the day, Shirley again joined up with Tats. An amazing couple who spent 54 years together raising 3 kids and 2 grandkids, they are finally back together.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents: Iroku and Some, 7 siblings: Tokio, Shizuko, Maso, Kiyoshi, Yoshio, Harue, and Toshie, her husband: Tatsumi, and their oldest son: Brent.

She is survived by her beloved sister Kikue (Jane) Yamamoto of Reno, NV, son Leslie Yamamoto of Santa Ana, CA, daughter Lynda Yamamoto of Cascade, ID, granddaughter Samantha of Bremerton, WA, and grandson Spencer of Newport News, VA.

A Celebration of her life was held at Westminster Memorial Park, Lakeside Chapel 14801 Beach Blvd. Westminster, California 92683 on Tuesday August 15, 2023 at 11:30am.