Hironaka, Carol Michiko (Hiribara) Obituary

Hironaka, Carol Michiko (Hiribara) attended Elk Grove High School in Elk Grove, CA. View the obituary, post a memory, or share a photo about Hironaka, Carol Michiko (hiribara).

Graduation Year	Class of 1942
Date of Passing	Apr 04, 2017
About	Carol Michiko Hironaka, born January 25, 1925, in Florin, California. After a short illness, Carol went peacefully to heaven on April 4, 2017, surrounded by family and friends. She leaves behind her four children, Marion Cowee (John), Audrey Toy (William), Bruce (Valerie), and John (Daphne Rhoe), her grand-children Misa, Jennifer, Matthew, Christine, Gregory, and Stephanie, and her great-granddaughter, Nomi. She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Isamu Hironaka, parents, Frank Kinichi and Yoshiko Hirabara, sister Grace Hironaka (Hiroshi), and brother Thomas (Yoko). Carol grew up in Florin working on her parents farm and going to school, including Saturday Japanese language school. She was active in sports, softball, basketball, and field hockey. She missed her graduation ceremony from Elk Grove High School in 1942 because her family was removed from their home due to Executive Order 9066. During World War II she and her family were incarcerated for three years at Manzanar War Relocation Center. For over 26 years Carol worked for the Sacramento Public Library in Technical Services and at the family owned restaurant, Lucky Caf‚ part time. She developed many lasting friendships with her colleagues. She was an avid San Francisco Giants fan and even won a car at Fan Appreciation Day in 1970. She had been active in participating on pilgrimages to Manzanar, sharing oral history with the U.S. National Park Service and with the media so others would know that this history was important to her. She was a gentle voice for justice and fairness. Carol not only enjoyed traveling, but she also looked forward to the camaraderie at her weekly Japanese language and oil painting classes and Tanoshimi Kai luncheons until her death. Carol was very proud of winning the "Aspiring Artist Debut" with her painting of a Kauai rooster at a recent art show. She loved animals, especially cats. She also loved being in her garden. Yearly she made a point of attending the Bocho Doshi Kai celebration. She was also a member of Centennial Methodist Church. The family of Carol Hironaka would like to extend their gratitude for the support given during this difficult time and ask for your continued prayers. A private memorial service was held. Memorial donations may be made in Carol's name to a charity of your choice. - Information from the Sacramento Bee