March 24, 1930 – December 4, 2022
Information provided by Smits Funeral Home
Mary S. Furuyama, nee Yamamoto, age 92, of South Holland, IL passed away on Sunday, December 4, 2022. Beloved wife for 65 years of the late Charles M. Furuyama. Chuck and Mary first met at a dance in Chicago and then bumped into each other days later at a fabric store where Chuck worked. He offered her a job and nine months later they were married. They loved spending vacations in Florida, first in Cocoa Beach and then in Marco Island where they spent winters with close friends.
Loving mother of Ron Furuyama, Kim (Mike Munoz) Furuyama, and Lyn (Steve) Munson. Devoted grandmother of Leah (Austin) Markward, Sarah Munson, Charlie Munoz and Suki Munoz. Dear sister of Ruth Sasaki and preceded in death by her brothers Shigeto Yamamoto, George Yamamoto, Gene Yamamoto, Goro Yamamoto, Georgine Sowa and Margaret Yee. Fond aunt of many nieces and nephews and loved by so many more.
Mary shared her faithful love and exuberance for the Lord with everyone around her. She also loved to garden and cook for her family. Mary was continuously supportive of those around her, regularly showing enthusiasm for her loved ones in their times of joy. She was a lover of animals, starting with her childhood living on a farm — her favorites were their goats, and she was known for having many cats throughout her lifetime. With her husband Chuck she also had dogs and rescued a squirrel. In short, Mary was a lover of people and animals, always extending a warm smile and helping hand.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. Interment will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery – Elwood, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to Samaritan’s Purse. Arrangements entrusted to Smits Funeral Home – South Holland, IL. For further information, please contact 708-333-7000 or visit our online obituary and guest book at www.SMITSFH.com.
