Kiyoko Yoshitomi

Our beloved mother, Kiyoko Yoshitomi (née Takiguchi), 97, of Vancouver, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, surrounded by her family. A woman of extraordinary strength, she lived a full life as a nurturing mother, grandmother, and dedicated member of the Ikenobo Ikebana Society of Japan.

Kiyoko, born in Imaichi, Japan, 2nd oldest of 11 siblings, a trained educator, specializing in early childhood education, married Yoshitada in Kobe, Japan, then immigrated to Canada (June 1957) to live in Hamilton, Ontario.

Despite not speaking fluent English, she was a skilled seamstress, taught cooking and flower arranging, and as the founding member, served as President of the Hamilton Chapter of the Ikenobo Ikebana Society.

Predeceased by Yoshitada (1976), Kiyoko successfully raised three children while nurturing a lifelong passion for floral design and teaching. After fulfilling her dream of opening Forest Gate Florist, she retired to Vancouver, B.C., to cherish time with her family in Canada and Japan, while she continued to share her passion for Ikenobo Ikebana by teaching advanced classes and supporting the Vancouver Chapter.

In her active years, her home was a true sanctuary, filled with the aroma of delicious Japanese dishes and the beauty of fresh flowers. Throughout her long life, her strong faith served as a guiding light through every joy and challenge.

Having completed her journey, she is now resting peacefully in His presence ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’ (Matthew 25:23)

While she will be profoundly missed, her memory will live on in the hearts of her children, Florence (Alan), Kerry (Kate) and Lori (Brian) and her cherished grandchildren, Ashley, Sarah, Ariel and Sean (Hannah).

“Mom- we will love you forever”

To all who knew, spent time with, or took lessons from Kiyoko-san: In lieu of flowers or donations, the family kindly requests that you honor her memory by enjoying a beautiful flower and cherishing a special moment shared with her.