Alice Sumida, ONE Banquet, September 2014 (Rich Iwasaki)

Remembering Alice Sumida - Always full of smiles and a zest for life, Alice lived a remarkable life and ended it peacefully in her sleep on August 16, 2018.

I first met Alice when I joined our II Chapter in 1988.  She was rather sad not to have found a teacher of the Ikenobo School, but nevertheless, remained a steadfast member of II.  She joined Sakura Singers, a group of women who regularly met to sing and often sang at community events. She had a beautiful soprano voice. One of her favorite songs was "Shina no Yoru" or "Nights of China."

A way we all can continue to appreciate the Sumida's various support to the community is to enjoy the beautiful koi fish at the Portland Japanese Garden, which were from their Japanese koi fish import business in Woodburn.

Alice was always generous and supported many organizations.  Read about her long and active life, "Alice Sumida learns to dance through history"  which appeared in the Beaverton Valley Times (July 24, 2014) to celebrate her 100th birthday. 

I will remember and cherish her positive and cheerful disposition.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 8, 1 p.m. at the Oregon Buddhist Temple.