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80, of Honolulu, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2021.She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend to many, as well as a lifelong early education teacher and administrator who cared deeply about the welfare of young children.
Born in Honolulu in 1941 to Reynolds and Dorothy Miwa, she grew up in Manoa and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1959. She attended the University of Hawaii, graduating in 1963 with a degree in Early Education.
She married Robert Ariyoshi of Honolulu, an Army Officer, in 1963, and they began a lifelong journey together, traveling the world and raising two children. She taught early education at local schools along the way. When the family returned to Hawaii in 1979 for Robert's final duty station before retirement, she began a 30-year career with Kamehameha Schools as an early education teacher and administrator, retiring in 2009.
Barbara's light shone very brightly throughout her life and was a touchstone for all those around her. She was unselfish, kind, loving and vibrant. She was always even-keeled and respectful of others, and so garnered the deep respect of colleagues, friends and family. She taught all those around her how to live with a compassionate heart and was the rock of her family.
Barbara was preceded in death by her daughter Wende in 2019, and is survived by her husband Robert, brother James Miwa and family of Los Angeles, son Mark, daughter-in-law Donna, granddaughter Malia, and cousins, nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, April 24, 2022 at Hosoi Garden Mortuary. Visitation at 3pm. Services at 4pm. Aloha/casual attire. Please wear a mask.
Arrangements Provided By: Hosoi Garden Mortuary
