Fujiye "Fudge" Umemoto

Fudge (Fujiye) Umemoto, 99, passed away peacefully in her home on July 21, 2026. Born in Seattle on June 4, 1927; Fudge was youngest of 8 children. Her mother died shortly after her birth, therefore, was raised by her dad and siblings in downtown Seattle, where her family had a small grocery store.

After her family internment, she returned to Seattle and attended the University of WA. She met her husband of 57 years, Joe, during social events and bowling tournaments in Seattle. They ran off to Reno, got married and moved to the Yakima Valley (Wapato), where they raised their five children.

Fudge was very active in her community. She was the Wapato American Legion Women’s Auxiliary President and served on the Wapato School Board. She ended her working career as one of the secretaries at Wapato High School.

Besides bowling (high score of 221) and dancing, she loved to make quilts and enjoyed family time. Loved to play games, trips to the casino, get-aways to the beach, and spend fun time with her family and friends; she loved to stay active. She was a huge Seattle sports fan. Loved the Seahawks, Mariners, and the Sonics. Watched all the games. Even in her mid-90’s, she would text family members game updates, birthday wishes, or other communications.

She is survived by her children - Randy and Rosa Umemoto, Carol and Dale Sera, Scott and Betty Umemoto, Alan and Michele Umemoto, Judy and Steve Steensma; and her 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Fudge’s warmth, strength, humor, and unwavering love for her family and community will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.