Kikuko Tsukamoto

Kikuko was Nisei, second generation Japanese American. She spent her adolescent and young adult years in Japan for education and to retain the Japanese language and customs. After an unsuccessful attempt to return to the United States before WWII, Kikuko spent the war in Japan, living with her grandparents in the Fujita family temple in Yamanashi and becoming fully immersed in Japanese customs and culture.

Returning to the U.S. after WWII, Kikuko lived in San Mateo with her family until her marriage to Yoshimi Tsukamoto in 1949. Kikuko worked at Bourdet French Laundry in San Jose and later at San Jose Curtain and Blanket Cleaners, which she and her husband owned until their retirement in 1982. They enjoyed retirement together until her Yoshimi’s passing in 1986.

Kikuko was a devout follower of the Buddhist and Gedatsu faiths and was actively involved with the Gedatsu Church and the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, including the Buddhist Women’s Association and the Fukuoka Kenjin Kai.

Kikuko is survived by her loving children Tim (Jane), Diane (Peter), Glenn (Theresa), Donald (Kathy), and Donna (Glenn), and her precious grandchildren Michiko, Grayson, Jennifer, Adam (Diana), Kevin, Amanda (Joey), Brandon, and Ryan. She is predeceased by her parents Yuya and Yoshi (Iwatate) Fujita, brothers Frank (Patrick) and George (Florence), and loving son Larry Shuji.

Kikuko lived a beautiful life of appreciation and gratitude filled with love of family and friends. She will always be an inspiration to those who knew her.

Private services have been held. The family wishes to thank those who have expressed warm words of sympathy. Donations may be made to San Jose Buddhist Church and Yu-Ai Kai, in memory of Kikuko Tsukamoto.