Sadame Tokunaga passed away peacefully on July 3, 2020, after 93 fulfilling years sharing in the joy she brought to those she loved. Born on April 26,1927, to Johei and Kiyome Tsugawa, Sadame was the second of eight children. Despite the scarcities of the Great Depression, Sadame held many fond memories of her early life in and around the Stockton area helping with her family’s agricultural work. In 1942 Sadame was detained at Gila River Internment Camp for the duration of World War II. After the war, Sadame returned to Stockton where, in 1951, she married Frank “Duke“ Tokunaga. The 1950s were happy years for Sadame, strengthening ties across extended family, establishing a new home, and raising two sons, Daniel and Robert.
Sadame enjoyed gardening, cooking, short vacations, shopping, and watching the San Francisco Giants and 49ers. This simple life allowed her to focus on her greatest joy - her immediate and extended families. Holiday gatherings were some of her happiest times - hosting many of the festivities, creating her special Japanese dishes for the dinner table, chatting with the aunties and watching the extended family kids grow up together.
She had an uncanny ability to remember special dates and the small details of the lives of those around her. Those who knew her will remember her kind and caring nature.
A private burial will be held at a later date with a celebration of life to be held after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
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