Rose M. Miyaji

On June 13, 2018 long-time member, Rose Miyaji, passed away. A beloved mother and grandmother, Rose is missed.

Rose Miyaji was born in Watsonville, California to a farming family. Rose always had an interest in education. She earned a degree at Wilson Junior College in Watsonville. She continued her education at the University of Chicago and Northwestern University, majoring in education.

Rose had an extensive work history. She worked as a librarian at the University of Chicago. She later worked as a secretary for 22 college presidents at the Associated Colleges of Illinois. In San Diego, Rose worked for General Dynamics as a secretary in the computer department. Rose also worked as an assistant to the dean at Mesa College, retiring from this position at the age of 74.

Rose’s skills as a wife and mother were just one area where she excelled. She raised three boys—Wendell, Charles and Winfred. She was very active in their lives not just at home but active in the Boy Scouts and the PTA. She was a PTA president and served on many committees at her sons' school.

With her husband, Masanobu, Rose instilled in her sons the value of hard work and education. They went on to be very successful, not only in school but in their professional lives. They have become a PhD electrical engineer, an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and a software sales and design.

Rose also had interest and talent in music especially as a trained soprano soloist. At one time she auditioned and won a soloist role in the Starlight Opera. She also performed as a soloist at her church on numerous occasions, in addition to all her musical handiwork experiences.

In her spare time, Rose was very interested in arts and crafts. She loved to paint when time permitted. Another interest was the Padres. She not only enjoyed watching them on television but she frequently attended games with her son Winfred. Rose also enjoyed traveling and took numerous trips around North America and abroad.

Rose Miyaji led a fulfilling, interesting life. She is survived by her sons Wendell, Charles and Winfred as well as her daughters-in-law, Sihem and Eunice and her two granddaughters, Amira and Grace. Rose is also survived by her sister Lily Matsumoto.

On Monday, June 18, 2018, at 9 AM in the chapel of First Presbyterian Church, there will be a visitation. The funeral will immediately follow the visitation at 10 AM. We will celebrate Rose’s life, be reminded of the joy we found in her presence, and share the hope we have in the resurrection through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Blessed in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15