Arthur K Abe

Arthur K. Abe, age 94, passed away peacefully on August 13th surrounded by his family. As part of the "Greatest Generation," he valued family, patriotism, community service, a strong work ethic, self-sufficiency, honesty, and generosity to others.

Art was a UW junior when WWII broke out and was evacuated to an internment camp in Minidoka, ID. He later completed his UW education with degrees in Business Administration and Electrical Engineering. From camp he voluntarily served in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged.

Art was a lifelong member of the Nisei Veterans Committee because of his desire to honor Japanese American veterans who gave their lives to serve their country. He retired from a career at Boeing and enjoyed spending time between his waterfront home on Hood Canal, and his Seattle residence.

Art had a heart for people in need and one of the ways it was expressed was by supporting Kay (Yoshihara), his wife of 61 ½ years, in her work serving the homeless through The Lord's Table. Art was born to Sadako Nishitani Abe Hirabayashi and Takaji Abe along with sisters Kazuko Nishimura and Lila Tsutsumi who preceded him in death.

He was part of a large extended Nishitani clan and enjoyed close relations with his cousins and uncles and aunts. Art and Kay raised 4 children: Carolyn (Robert) Ling, Michael, Janet (Steve) Lee, and Norman. They were blessed with 4 grandchildren: Garrett & Allison Lee and Melissa & Bethany Ling. Art and Kay have maintained a lifelong relationship with former foster children Ann Saucier, Sally Caldwell and Amy Yamamoto.

At Art's request, no funeral service will be held. Our family extends our deep appreciation to Dr. Song Zhao and the Oncology Department at Minor & James, who provided excellent and compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Densho, the Nisei Veterans Committee or Cornerstone Christian Fellowship.

er the direction of Bleitz Funeral Home, Seattle, WA.