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Patsy Hanae Masuda Izumo was born June 24, 1934, - Haiku Maui to Charles Takechiyo Masuda and Gladys Kikue Wada. A Maui High graduate, Patsy while studying at the University of Hawaii worked for room and board throughout her undergraduate years. Patsy had a positive effect on countless adults and children. She led by example, nurtured and supported all around her with her smiles and words of encouragement. She was devout 60 year member of Central Union Church, sang in the choir and served on numerous committees.
Her storied career in education began with her earning a Bachelor's Degree and Fifth Year Teaching Certificate, Patsy started at Keanae Elementary in Hana,Maui teaching Grades 1-3 simultaneously .In 1961 moved to Oahu & taught at several schools. She was a beginning teacher and librarian supervisor. Patsy always found time to encourage and counsel those educators.
From the teaching level Patsy quickly moved into school and State level administration. She earned two Masters - Counseling and Guidance and Educational Administration. Becoming State Director her responsibilities were school libraries, Instructional Television and Multi-Media Services.
Concurrently she raised three children sewing their outfits, overseeing school work and activities. She dutifully supported Hiromu, by fully tailoring his military uniforms and making fresh musubi lunches at 3 AM for his field training.
In the 1980s, Patsy was enrolled at in University of Southern California's Ed.D. program and received her Doctorate in 1985.
Patsy was an exceptionally active member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International; Chapter president, then State President. Later was named as the Southwest Regional Director at International level - first for Hawaii member and first Asian.
Patsy led active life, obtained a realtor's license and with her friend and business partner Mona Chang Vierra, opened a unique gift shop 'N' Everything Nice.
After almost 40 years in the DOE, Patsy effortlessly became Head of School at St. Clement. She always was outside to greet her young charges as they were dropped off. She wiped tears, encouraged smiles and reassured anxious parents that their child will be fine and they were. The children and parents loved Dr. Izumo. She spent 15 rewarding years at St. Clement and parents still kept in touch with her.
Retirement wasn't for Patsy so she, Mona and her son Chef Tony opened the Grand Café & Bakery specializing in comfort food complete with cola braised short ribs and Patsy and Mona's prize winning lemon cake.
Over the last several years, Patsy remained involved with education - board member Myron B. Thompson Academy, public charter school; member Academic Affairs - Sacred Hearts Academy.
A lifelong reader, Patsy's last books were varied - Tough Times Never Last, But Tough People Do! ; Good Grief! Peanuts Pick-Me-Ups For When You Need 'Em Most.
Emily Dickinson's words reflect Patsy's life
"If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain:
If I can ease one life the aching
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin
Unto his nest again, I shall not live in vain."
Patsy, multifaceted, multitalented, was a rare diamond!
Visitation 9:15am Thursday January 5, 2023 at Central Union Church. Service 10:00am.
Arrangements Provided By: Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC
