We Remember
KOIDE, Leiko
November 18, 1936 — March 15, 2024
Leiko Koide, a long time resident of Kelowna, BC, passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 15, 2024, at the age of 87. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love through all those who knew her.
She was born in Vancouver, BC, as the fourth of eight children of Tetsuo and Sakae Sakaki. She was interned in Lillooet during World War II, after which she moved to Revelstoke and then settled down in Kamloops, BC. It is there where she met George, who would drive from Kelowna every week to dance with her. They married in 1960 and spent 64 wonderful years dancing through life together.
Leiko is survived by her husband George Koide; her son Chris (Lynne Holt); and her two joys in life, her granddaughters Jennifer Leiko (Devon Ulrich) and Emily Mariko (Wes Sutherland). She is also missed by her surviving brothers Terry, Norio, Ed, and Roy Sakaki and their families.
She worked for the City of Kelowna for 27 years, where she made many lifelong friends. After retiring in 1991 she loved spending her winters skiing at Big White, and her summers gardening and seeing friends and family — especially playing with her granddaughters. Her kitchen was a constant gathering place, and she made sure everyone ate tasty baking and amazing Japanese food. She always downplayed her abilities, but she honed her skiing style after 50 years on the slopes, she could grow anything in the garden, and everyone came back for a second helping of her cooking.
While usually quiet and polite, she could also be full of funny surprises! She would do anything to help friends and family. Many people referred to her as their best friend, the best sister, or their favourite aunt. Her kindness and humour will live on in everyone she touched.
A Celebration of Life is being planned for the summer of 2024. Details will be provided when available.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
to George, Chris, and family, deepest condolences. Leiko’s warmth, humour and friendliness will be missed. I think of her often when I park my car and then see a spot closer to my destination … that, from some anecdote I think maybe my mom told us.
My deepest condolences to your family. I am always appreciative of her warm smile and lovely temperament at our few visits we’ve had together. I hope you all take care and cherish the great memories.
George, Chris and family, My sincere condolences on the passing of your beloved Leiko. She was always smiling and happy on the many occasions that I saw her at our temple during fundraisers or New Years Eve dances. She always made a point of saying hello. May your memories of her be of comfort to you during this difficult time.