June Fumiye Kojima

At age 94, June died peacefully on February 15, 2024 at Simpliciano’s Residential Home, where she kept her caregivers and roommates adorned with crochet leis, and amazed by her indomitable spirit.

June was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Kenji Kojima; sisters Evelyn Yagi, Kimiko Suzuki, Anne Uehara, Betty Tokita, and Joyce Hayashida; brothers Hiroshi and Harold Suzuki. She leaves her son, Blane (Terri-Lynn) Kojima, daughter, Annelle Onishi (Manuel Ramaya); grandchildren, Shawn Talaro, Justin (Manaka) and Jason (Lianne) Onishi, Nicole (Jason) Keifer, Kelsi (Ian) Hasegawa, Kimberly (Reece) Iwami; sister, Molly Yoshii; brothers, Roger, James (Helen), and Roy Suzuki; 11 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Born and raised in Ewa Beach, the sixth of Unshichi and Sui (Kanno) Suzuki’s twelve children, June spent her adult years as a resident of Waipahu/Wahiawa. She was a doting mother and grandmother who never missed her son’s baseball games, or daughter’s piano recitals; and who showered her grandchildren and countless others with love and support beyond measure.

June lit up any room with her vivacious self, stylish copper-toned hair, and gem-studded shoes. Those who were fortunate enough to dine on her exquisite culinary delights often reminisce about her delectable no-recipe entrees at family gatherings. It’s no wonder that she opened “Junko,” a coffee shop in Waipahu, which was known for its “ono” and generous portions of comfort food. Later, she worked beside her husband, a buyer for the historic BigWay Supermarket chain until its closure in 1999.

June’s passing leaves a huge void in her family, but we have hope in being reunited one day, for we know that Heaven rejoiced when June gave her heart to the Lord many years ago.

The family expresses their sincere appreciation to members of the staff at Simpliciano’s Residential Care Home and Bristol Hospice, who lovingly cared for June during her final years.

A private celebration of life was held.