Eiko was born in Nagasaki, Japan to Saburo and Yasu Yamasaki. She met her future husband, James Cary, in Japan while he was serving in the US Navy. Jim was transferred to Honolulu, HI, where they maintained a long-distance relationship until he could return for their wedding in February 1956 and returned to Honolulu with his beautiful bride.
Eiko and Jim were transferred a couple years later to San Diego where they purchased their first home in National City where they lived until their death. Eiko was an energetic, vibrant, giving, caring and inspirational woman who was loved by all that met her. She was a devoted wife and mother and loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much.
Eiko was devoted to St. Mary’s church and passionate about the National City Boys & Girls Club where she spent many hours volunteering. Eiko will be dearly missed.
Eiko is survived by her daughter Mary (Randy) Gates, Bonita CA, son Michael Cary, National City CA, grandson Geoffrey (Megan) Gates, Burnsville MN, granddaughter Melissa (Nino) Gallares, Gilbert AZ and six great-grandchildren, Casey, Leesville LA, Gibson and Presley Gallares, Gilbert AZ, Caleb, McKenzie and Maleah Eiko Gates, Burnsville MN. Eiko is also survived by many relatives in Japan, and nieces and nephews in the US.
Preceded in death by her loving husband, James Cary (1998), and son, Joseph Cary (1999).
In Order to honor Eiko and her fondness for bright colors, we are asking all attendees to refrain from wearing any black or dark colors. Please join us in celebrating her love of life by wearing bright and colorful clothing.
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