Keiko E. Ingerson

Proud Owner of Keiko’s Family Hair Care, and long time Lewiston/Auburn barber Stylist, Keiko Endo Ingerson, died peacefully at her home surrounded by family after a brave battle with cancer. Keiko died as she lived her life, with grace and dignity. Keiko was born in Tokyo, Japan on May 29, 1932.

At 24 she met and married Norman Ingerson and moved to the United States. After being in the states for some time she decided to become an American citizen. Keiko worked as a barber since the age of 15. Her first job in the United States was on the Topsham Air Force Base. She then worked at Roger’s Hair Cutters, and in 1984 opened her own shop. Keiko’s customers were an extension of her family and she cherished each and everyone of them. Keiko retired at the age of 82 when cancer prevented her from performing the job she loved. Keiko’s one regret was that she was unable to attend her retirement party and individually say "good-bye and thank you" to all of her customers. While a resident in Lewiston, Keiko gave back to her community. She was a long time volunteer for the Advocacy for Children’s annual event. She occasionally did hair for Community Little Theater. She took countless people into her home when they were far from their families. Many Japanese people that settled in Maine eventually found their way into Keiko’s home. She was a host family for Japanese high school exchange students. She loved animals especially her own. Enjoyed weeding and taking care of her flower/vegetable gardens as well as visiting friends. She also enjoyed going to the ocean. In between customers you could catch her doing Soduko puzzles. Keiko is survived by her three children, Miko Caron of Sumrall, Mississippi, Mako and son-in-law, Gary O’Connell, Earle Edward Ingerson II and daughter-in-law, Nancy Thibault Ingerson, her niece Sonomi Ranucci and her husband Paul and their two children Takashi and Ayumi; 5 grandchildren; Steven, Jacob, and Chris Caron and Patrick and Tamiko O’Connell and 8 great grand children. Her sister Michiko Kajahara of Japan, along with nieces and nephews also in Japan. She had surrogate children, David Caron, John Jenkins. She also leaves behind her four legged son, Scoota, and his pals Ski and Skallah. Keiko is predeceased by her husband Norman and grandson, Josh Caron. The family would like to thank all the doctors and medical staff at CMMC especially Dr. David Caldwell, and Dr. Michael Brown. We appreciate all the care and support from Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice employees with special thanks to Kathleen and Michelle for being so kind, caring and supportive. We would also like to thank the Dempsey Center, Keiko did enjoy her massages and your support. All of you have help make this journey for Keiko and her family bearable. In the words of Keiko, “Hai, hai, hai, Sayonara!” Online condolences and photo gallery at www.thefortingroupauburn.com Visitation Fortin / Auburn May 2nd Saturday from 3:00 pm followed by Celebration of Life Service at 5:30. Fellowship and catered reception following the service at the funeral home. Donation in Keiko's memory may be made to ASPCA (local shelter ) or Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice Foundation 15 Strawberry Ave. Lewiston, Maine 04240. A service of The Fortin Group Plummer & Merrill Funeral Home 217 Turner St. Auburn, Maine 04210 (207) 783-8545