Joanne Haruye Yorozu

Joni was the daughter of Henry and Jean Yorozu. She was raised in Seattle, graduated from Rainier Beach High School, and worked in her early adult life as a medical lab assistant. While in Seattle, she met her life partner and husband Tim Button and moved with him to his hometown of Yakima, WA.

She continued her education at Yakima Valley College, earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Central Washington University, and worked as a medical technologist until her retirement.

She and Tim were outdoor enthusiasts and enjoyed scuba diving in Cabo, waterskiing in the Gorge, and hiking the foothills of the Cascades foraging for the elusive matsutake, (Joni always managed to find them). Long suffering Mariners season ticket holders, she and Tim faithfully attended multiple games per home stand and generously shared tickets with family and friends.

Joni enjoyed life in Yakima where she formed lasting friendships, took in stray dogs and cats, and developed an appreciation of the wine produced in the Yakima Valley.

She is survived by her husband Tim Button of Yakima; three sisters, Susan Tripp of Seattle, WA, Patty Schultz of Edmonds, WA, and Judy Yorozu of Seattle. She was a favorite aunt to Johanna Barrows, Kelly Dack, Tracy Begley, and Jaime Schultz, and was predeceased by her parents.

Her family would like to thank the family and friends, medical professionals and caregivers for the comfort and support Joni received.