Obituary

MIHO SAWADA Sept 26, 1944 – May 31, 2023

After a year-long struggle with stomach cancer, Miho Sawada passed away peacefully Wednesday May 31st at the Kensington Hospice in Toronto. A dedicated visual artist and respected teacher, Miho was born in Osaka, Japan. Following studies at the Kyoto City University of Art, Miho came to Canada to continue her studies at the University of Toronto. A resident of Toronto, Miho has had numerous solo exhibitions in Japan, Canada, and the United States. Her 1987 sculpture ‘Homo sapiens’ is one of seven permanent installations featured in the sculpture garden at Western University’s MacIntosh Gallery in London ON.

As she demonstrated in her art, Miho had a keen and discerning eye. She was playful, inquisitive, and never shy to express her opinion. Miho lived simply and modestly and would always express gratitude for the many remarkable opportunities she had been granted in her life. Her many friends and colleagues will remember her as a kind and generous spirit. She will be greatly missed.

A service will be held at the St. James chapel and crematorium, (635 Parliament St, just south of Bloor St E) on Wednesday June 14th at 11 a.m. All are welcome.

Visitation

Service

Date
June 14, 2023
Location
St. James Cemetery - Chapel
Time
11:00 AM

Cremation

Date
June 14, 2023
Location
St. James Crematorium
Time
12:00 PM

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August 19, 2023
Chris Kurata
I didn't realise how advanced Miho's cancer was and only learned today of her death. Her work as an artist lives on in Canada, the U.S. and Japan and her work as an activist alongside figures like Jesse Nishihata and Abe Kabayama will eventually surface in the archives. She was a faithful NDP supporter who worked hard for Faisal Hassan in York south and saw the world with a clear eye. I will miss her fierce intelligence and quiet persistence.
June 15, 2023
Faye Clarkson
Sorry to hear Miho passed away. She was a soft spoken friendly person. With her outgoing personality Miho met many people and showed a good sense of humor. Miho was a friend to me when she lived at Beech Hall Housing co-op. My codolences to her family who will always remember her for her many good qualities and abilities.
June 08, 2023
Kunio Yamagishi
I am sorry to hear about her loss. I believe she had lived her life to the fullest as her life and art activities spanned over the Pacific Ocean.