Yoshiko Miyake

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Yoshiko “Grandma Yoshi” Miyake, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of August 30, 2025, at the remarkable age of 103. Though her physical body has left us, her radiant light will never dim. She was the brightest presence in every room and a source of joy, laughter, and love to all who knew her.

Born in 1922, Yoshi lived a life defined by hard work, family, and connection. She married the love of her life, Yoshiteru (Yo) Miyake, on June 25, 1950, and together they shared 30 years of deep love until his passing in 1980. Their very first date—a wrestling match—was memorable and spoke to the fun and unique bond they carried throughout their marriage.

For more than 40 years, Yoshi worked as a server at the iconic Pagoda Restaurant, where she was adored not only by her loyal customers but also by Utah Jazz players who often came in after their home games. She became a favorite among them, building friendships that lasted well beyond her working years. She proudly served until the age of 80, never because she had to, but because she loved the people she served.

Her home was the heart of family traditions. Nothing brought her more joy than gathering everyone around her table for Sunday dinner. She poured love and care into every meal she cooked, making sure no one ever left hungry and everyone felt at home. These dinners became the highlight of the week, filled with laughter, stories, and her delicious food that brought the family closer together. July 3rd parties were always legendary, with more than 100 people gathering annually for the best view of the Granite High School fireworks. She also began a Labor Day tradition of going to Wendover that spanned over 50 years, eventually growing into a massive family trip with more than 50 loved ones joining in annually. How fitting that she passed on the very Saturday morning the family would have been heading to Wendover together.

Beyond her traditions, Yoshi will be remembered for her kindness, her humor, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome. Her smile was contagious, and her presence a comfort to all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughters Darlene Fox and Debbie (Tee) Ginn; her granddaughters Shannon (Michael) Jinks, Jessica (Da’Jon) Lang, and Ashley Sylvester; and her great-grandchildren Ethan, Emma, and Sophie Jinks and Ashlynn, Kaitlynn, and Brooklynn Sylvester. She now rejoins her husband, Yo, in eternal rest.

Though our hearts ache with her passing, we celebrate the extraordinary life she lived and the love she shared. Yoshi’s legacy will forever live on in her family, her traditions, and the countless lives she touched.

Funeral Services will be held at Memorial Murray Mortuary, 5850 South 900 East, Murray, Utah 84121 on Friday, September 12, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. There will also be a viewing from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. She will be laid to rest by her husband at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.