Emiko Kershaw

On February 8, 2024, Emiko Kershaw passed away; she was  92 years old. She was born Emiko Hashimoto, the eldest of six brothers and sisters.

Born in May 1931, and grew up on Awaji Kima Islands, Japan during WW2. After the war, she worked at a US Army hospital in Osaka, Japan, where she met a young soldier, Ledru Kershaw, who had been wounded multiple times. After his third visit to the hospital, he struck up a relationship with Emiko. He vowed if he survived the war, he would return and marry her. In 1954, they were married in Kobe, Japan. Neither side of the family approved of the marriage.

Emiko continued supporting her husband by living in three different countries and a dozen states. When the Vietnam Nam war ended, they retired to Eastern Oregon and Washington. Those who knew Emiko will miss her forever smile and friendly soul—her undeniable love and dedication to God.

She is survived by her two sons, Kobi Kershaw(wife)Lois and Leon Kershaw(wife)Debbie; grandchildren, Challan(Shallan) Corben(Shannon) Kershaw, Ashley Kershaw, Aaron (Sarah) Kershaw; great-grandchildren, Ada Mae, Colton, Nathan, Eliyah and Ronin Kershaw. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and several brothers and sisters.

Emiko expressed to have a private celebration of life on the Oregon coast, a place both Emiko and Lee loved to spend time. The family wishes to thank the team members of hospice and Eagle Springs for their care and kindness for our mother. Thank you, the Kershaw family.