We Remember
KITAURA, Hideko “Joan”
January 3, 1936 — November 3, 2014
Passed away peacefully November 3, 2014 at the age of 78. Survived by her daughters: Karen Stearns, Jackie (Gary) Yates; sons: Kirby Kitaura, Russell Kitaura (Judy Mok), Calvin Kitaura (Kim Corazzoli); grandchildren Jason Stearns, Brandon Stearns, Davis Yates, Dawson Yates; great grandchild Caleb Stearns; brother Terry Hikida; sister Margie Hatanaka (Jack) and sister-in-law Shirley Dow. Predeceased by father Gengo “George” Hikida, mother Tome “Elsie” Hikida, husband Jim Kitaura and brother George Hikida.
Joan was a caring, honest, generous and hardworking person who valued family and friends first and foremost. She graduated from KSS and attended business school. Joan worked at the bank and also at Sid’s Supermarket. She married Jim Kitaura and raised 5 children. The life of an orchardist was very busy: harvesting, canning, and freezing fresh grown produce. She happily exchanged her bounty with her friends. Joan also enjoyed the business aspect of running the orchard as well. In later years she also enjoyed following the success of her children and the wonderful growth of her grandchildren and great grandchild. She taught all of her kids and grandchildren kindness by example. She was proud of her family. At Joan’s request, she was laid to rest privately alongside her husband in Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery on November 10, 2014. Special thanks to Dr. Wickstrom, Dr. Swart, Nurse Practitioner Julie Louverin, Kelowna General Hospital doctors, nurses, care aids and support staff, mom’s phone friends and Burke Sanbrooks of Springfield Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Kelowna General Hospital Foundation, 2268 Pandosy Street, Kelowna, BC V1Y 1T2 www.kghfoundation.com. If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”
Service
November 10, 2014
Location
Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery
Ken and I are sad to hear of your Mom’s passing, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jackie, Karen, Kirby & Family,
We are so sorry for the loss of you Mom. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
We were so sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. We remember her as a kind, caring and happy individual. Our sincere sympathies to all the family.
Dear Kitaura Family
Sorry to hear your mom Joan passed away. We certainly cherish her fond memories in our Nembutsu meditation.
May you find the peace and comfort in the teaching of Amida Buddha that she is now united with all the loved ones including her pioneer parents, Jim. Namoamidabutsu
Minako & Orai Fujikawa, Salinas, California
My deepest condolences on the loss of your mother..My thoughts and prayers are with your family
Jackie and family, I am sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Hey Calvin,
Just heard about your mom’s death from my dad, through Shirley Tanemura. The thing I most remember about your mom was her big laugh, and her glasses. The news is sad but also brings back some great memories of Kelowna, and her generosity to our family. Lots of love to you, and the rest of your family.
Your old pal, Bud
Calvin and Family
So sorry to hear the passing of your mom. I will always remember the stories you told of her when we worked together at Flightcraft. Sounded like a beautiful lady inside and out.
Deepest sympathy to all the family. With love and prayers , Gayleen Collins.
Karen, Jason, Brandon and family so sorry to hear of your mom and grandmother’s passing. She was such a sweet lady, so generous and kind. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Dear Russell and family,
So sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. My heart goes out to all of you during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts.
Love,
Rhonda
I am so sorry for you loss. I have many fond memories of her coming into the office and her bright smile and giggle. My thoughts are with you.
Karen, Jackie and Family,
I am so very sorry to hear about your mom. I have so many fond memories of us growing up together and of your mom and dad always being there for us. I know this must be a very difficult time for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love Laurie
Kirby, Karen, Jackie and family,
We are very saddened to hear of your mom’s passing…she was such a happy and friendly person. Our sincere sympathy and condolences to your family. We are thinking of you.
Our family sends Condolences to Joan’s family. She was a lovely lady. The Howika girls.
Our sincere sympathy to the entire Kitaura family on the passing of your mother. Many years ago when times were difficult for our family, your Mom and Dad were there to help without hesitation. They believed in the importance of family; something we have tried to instill in our own children from a young age. Joan’s smile and laughter could brighten up a room. Our thoughts are with you – cherish the memories.
To the Kitaura family. I am so sorry to hear about your Mom. I will always remember her as a kind and bubbly lady. My thoughts will be with you.