Masako Dornbos
After an eventful life of 89 years, well-lived, and well-loved, Masako Dornbos passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on March 8th.
Masako was born in Osaka, Japan the eldest of seven children. She spent most of her childhood helping with her siblings as her mother was blind. Growing up during WW2 gave her an amazing appreciation for the "little things" in life.
In 1958 Masako was a hostess at a small town restaurant in Yamato, Japan. This is where she would meet the love of her life Paul, where he was completing his term in the Marine Corps. They were married in 1959 and three years later came to the United States, to raise their newborn daughter, Donna.
Masako was very proud to have become a U.S. Citizen in 1971.
Masako spent her life as a homemaker and a 54 year resident of Wickliffe, Ohio. Masako was devoted to caring for her home, animals, garden, and most importantly her family.
She had a love for shopping, purchasing beautifully ornate clothing, custom jewelry and unique things that had "meaning" to her. She and husband, Paul, spent many years traveling to rock quarries, the chagrin river and attending gem and mineral shows, looking for beautiful stones and fossils.
Masako was blessed with a very large family in Japan. She spent time throughout her life traveling back and forth to visit, introducing her family and meeting new family members, sightseeing, and eating all of her favorite foods!
Masako's greatest joy was spending time with her family and making memories. She was so proud of her three grandchildren and great grandson. Caring for each of them throughout their lives. Times well spent playing, cooking/eating, drinking hot tea, enjoying nature, frequenting local buffets, traveling, along with taking photos of each of those moments.
From her childhood in Osaka, Japan to her adult life in Wickliffe, Ohio, she always gave honest life advice, made everyone laugh and was kind to everyone fortunate to meet her. She was strong, determined and a fiercely independent woman. We will miss her so much, everyday.
Masako was preceded in death by her mother Harue Kawawaki, father Kamekichi Kawawaki. Three brothers Masakazu Kawawaki, Masao Kawawaki, Kazuo Kawawaki. Two sisters Asako Doi, Yasuko Nishitani.
Masako is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Paul Dornbos. Beloved daughter Donna Dornbos. Loving grandchildren Bryan Kralj, Katie Selerowski, Toran Trbovich. Special great grandson Jayden Villanueva. Sister of Toshiko Inoue. And a host of nieces, nephews and cousins in Japan.
The family expresses appreciation to the doctors, nurses and home health care team of UH Richmond Medical Center. A special thank you to the palliative and hospice staff at Traditions Health who provided invaluable care.
A private celebration of life will be held.