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Kazuko "Kay" or "Katherine" Miyakawa, 93, peacefully passed away on November 24, 2020. She was born in Lawai, Kauai, the eldest daughter of Saroku and Asano Matsunaga. After graduating from Kauai High School in 1945, she moved to Honolulu. There, she met her husband, Richard. Married in 1949, they settled in Kaimuki. About that time, Kay planted pikake plants at the family vegetable farm near Kaimuki Intermediate School. That was the beginning of the Miyakawa Pikake Farm.Because she excelled at improving the quality and production of the pikake, many growers requested her advice. She serviced many florists throughout the island, from Kahala to Wahiawa and Kailua. Many local celebrities sought her leis. Her children helped make leis throughout their growing years and beyond. Kay was very proud that her beautiful leis played a role in the life events of so many people.
In 1969, Kay and Richard built their dream home next to the Pikake Farm. She then expanded her business, growing dendrobium orchid. Her green thumb included a tiny vegetable patch that produced assorted vegetables. Her love of flowers didn't end in her garden. For many years, Kay studied Ohara Style of Ikebana at the Jodo Mission in Makiki. Each week, she displayed a gorgeous flower arrangement on the Japanese Tokonoma in her home.
Kay was predeceased by her beloved husband, Richard "Rugged" Yuichi Miyakawa, her parents, and 8 siblings. She is survived by her children, Gail Chun (Edward), Sidney (Kristina), Leighton (Josephine), Colleen Kim (Michael Swenson), Diane Louis (Stanley), 11 grand- children, 10 great-grandchildren, and her brother, Larry Tamaki Matsunaga.
Private services held at Diamond Head Memorial Park.
Arrangements Provided By: Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC
