Etsuko Loughnane Obituary

Loughnane, Etsuko

Etsuko Loughnane (née Wada), aged 92, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, in Dover, Ohio. Born on December 1, 1933, in Tokunoshima, Japan, she was the cherished daughter of the late Tatsuo and Tomi Wada.

Etsuko lived a life deeply rooted in devotion to her family and her cultural heritage. She was a loving wife to her late husband, John Philip Loughnane. Etsuko's dedication extended across continents as she maintained close ties with her family and friends both in America and Japan.

She is survived by her children: daughters Shelagh (Steve) Pruni, and Maureen (Evan Henschel), and son Kevin. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren-Stephen, Anthony (Delaney), Micheil, Adele, & Joseph Pruni, Maya Henschel, Payton, Zoe, & Olivia Loughnane -and her great-grandson John Pruni. Etsuko is also survived by her siblings Yasuichi (Katsue), Tsutomu (Sumako), Tatsuko, Sueo (Todome), as well as her brothers- and sisters-in-law Lee, Mary, Carol, and Philip (Eileen). She leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends who will remember her fondly.

Preceding her in death in addition to her husband John and her parents; siblings Ryoichi, Teruko, Yasuo; parents-in-law Philip and Juanita Loughnane; brother-in-law Patrick Loughnane; and her cherished cat Miki.

Etsuko was a woman of remarkable talents. A gifted gardener and seamstress, she found joy in nurturing beauty both in nature and through her crafts. She practiced ikebana-the Japanese art of flower arranging-and excelled in crochet, bunkashishu (Japanese needlepoint) and bookmark making.

Education was a cornerstone of Etsuko's values. She took great joy in reading, especially history, and instilled this love in her children and grandchildren. Etsuko took great care to honor obligations and express appreciation -a testament to the integrity that defined her character.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the USO or the Japanese Mutual Aid Society of Chicago in Etsuko's memory. Please refrain from sending flowers to the temple.

Etsuko's memory will live on through the many lives she touched. A Memorial Service will be held on March 28, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Midwest Buddhist Temple, 435 W. Menomonee, Chicago. Reception immediately following in the temple reception hall.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Park Village Healthcare Center and Crossroads Hospice.

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