Hisako Chinen Obituary

I am so sorry to hear of her passing. I knew her from the restaurant. Our softball team was sponsored by YamatoYa so we went there quite often after games and tournaments. She was always friendly, always took the time to talk.

I am so sorry to hear about Hisako-san. My deepest condolences to Sandy and Ken-san. Hisako-san always made dinner experiences at Yamatoya special.

My daughter, Tina, and Hisa's daughter, Amy, were classmates at East High and enjoyed a warm friendship. Through this friendship, I met Hisa. Whenever I went to Yamato Ya's, she greeted me with the warmth of a family member. Hisa IS a wonderful person and I feel the loss of her presence.

As for the Chinen family, they were blessed with Hisa and can take much comfort knowing that he is now happily resting with God in Heaven.

Virg Zawacki

Our family "grew up" in front of her eyes and she taught them how to use chop sticks from a very young age, Having her as our special waitress was a highlight of sharing dinners at Yamatoya throughout the years. She always knew when one of us was "missing" and caught up with what they were doing--even after college. Such a gentle presence in our family's life; she will always be remembered with joy. Our sincere condolences to her family and friends.

Hisa was always moving fast at work and still had time to talk to all the customers about what was going on with them. Her tennis shoes were always a fun topic. She always knew what was going on with Tito in Hope and passed on information to us. She was always so great to Carol and I and fun to be around. She is a special person and is missed greatly.

I was so sorry to hear of Hisako's passing. My family and I were frequent patrons of Yamato's for many years. She was one of the first person's we met there and we always looked forward to seeing her. She got to know my usual entree and didn't have to ask anymore, but she kidded me about not having any adventurous tastes. She got to meet my cousin Steve, and together we "adopted" her as our cousin. We were sorry to find her retired when we returned to Anchorage, and miss her presence at the restaurant. She had a beautiful smile. The way she interacted with customers, one could easily tell, that they were there not only for the good food. God be with you, kind, gentle happy spirit. Our condolences to her family. Our lives have been better because you had been part of it.

My heart is so terribly sad to hear of Hesha's passing.My late husband(Bruce Bell) and I became friends with her and her family, when we started stopping by Yamato's for dinner. She would some times come to the valley to see us. Bruce would always make her laugh by untying her apron strings as she ran around the restaurant. I haven't seen her in recent years because I moved to MI.in 2007, but her wonderful spirit and smile will always be in my heart!!! Rest in peace you wonderful soul.