Lasting Memories
Minako Hirata Sano
March 28, 1929-Sept. 15, 2021
Palo Alto, California
Born in 1929, Minako grew up in Tokyo when her country was perpetually at war, first with China and then in World War II. She and her family narrowly survived the intensive bombings of Tokyo, especially toward the end of the war. She entered Tsuda College, located in the suburbs of Tokyo, to study English a few months before Japan's surrender in 1945. Upon graduation, she took a job as a translator-interpreter for the Allied Occupation Forces where she met Peter Sano. They were married in Tokyo and moved to California, Peter's birthplace, in 1955.
During the years when their children, Stephen and Mary, were young, Minako directed her time and energy to a great deal of PTA-related work, She then took a job as the school secretary at Addison Elementary School in Palo Alto where she enjoyed working with children, parents, teachers and the District personnel for 15 years until her retirement in 1989.
She and Peter joined the First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto in 1960 and were actively involved in the church's ministry for peace and justice. She enjoyed singing in the church choir for many years.
Minako greatly enjoyed reading, get-togethers of family and friends for dinner, attending concerts and plays, and listening to classical music whenever possible. She resided at Bridgepoint in Los Altos for the last two years of her life and continued to enjoy visiting with family and friends.
She is survived by her son, Stephen, daughter-in-law, Linda Uyechi, daughter, Mary, son-in-law, Bruno Colchen, and her grandchildren, Marcel Colchen and KimiAnn Sano.
Oct. 8, 2021
Minako and her husband Peter were like parents to us, without any of the guilt! Some of our most joyous times were driving to and from Ashland Oregon each year to see plays, have great conversations, and enjoy long beautiful walks together.
Oct. 7, 2021
Minako was a dear friend and treasured member of First Pres Church, where I met her. Her wise counsel and deep commitment to the church and to peace and justice was foundational in shaping who that congregation was and in. AND Minako was a wonderful, supportive, thoughtful friend to me and my family. Her gracious and strong spirit will always guide me to be a better person and more faithful follower of Jesus. She was an Amazing Grace and a gift to us all.
Oct. 7, 2021
Minako was such an anchor for our community. She was gracious and full of beauty, brilliance, and warmth. I’m a better person for having known her, and I’m deeply thankful for her life and friendship.
Sept. 29, 2021
Minako was at the center of my years teaching at Addison Elementary. As all the children and staff swirled about through the years, she remained at the center -- competent, calm, good humored. But above all, I remember her kindness, her presence, her purpose. I will miss her.