Lillian Kumata

East Lansing, Michigan

Lillian Kumata, a resident of East Lansing for the past 56 years, died at home unexpectedly on April 2, two weeks shy of her 90th birthday.

Born in Sacramento, Lillian spent her high school and college years in Japan. There, she met her future husband, Hideya (Hidy), who was serving with the U.S. Army. After marrying in 1947, Lillian and Hidy later moved to East Lansing, where Hidy became a professor of communications at Michigan State University. Following Hidy’s death in 1973, Lillian joined the Asian Studies Center at MSU and in 1989 became coordinator of Japan Programs.

Lillian was deeply involved in local, national, and international volunteer activities. Among the many organizations to which she contributed her time and talents were the American Red Cross, Michigan-Shiga Sister States, Community Volunteers for International Programs (MSU), and AARP Michigan. She was also a founding member of Eastminster Presbyterian Church in East Lansing.

Lillian was recognized for her contributions with many honors, including MSU’s Distinguished Staff Award in 1978; the Lifetime Achievement Community Service Award, State of Michigan; the Order of the Sacred Treasure Gold and Silver Rays, His Majesty the Emperor of Japan; the Millennium International Volunteer Award, U.S. Department of State; and the American Red Cross Tiffany Circle Society of Women Leaders Una Award. In special recognition, the Mid-Michigan Chapter of the Red Cross created the Lillian Kumata Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service in 1994.

Lillian is survived by her daughters, Ellen (Mark Hammer), of Cambridge, MA, and Carol, of Pittsburgh; grandson, Julian Hammer; also of Cambridge; and sister-in-law, Ruth Kumata. She leaves family in Japan and many friends and bridge partners. While she will be greatly missed, her life will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A memorial service is being planned for this summer. The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Lansing. On line condolences may be made at www.grlansing.com.