Obituary
YAMADA, Miwa Anne After a short illness, Miwa passed away peacefully at Toronto General Hospital on October 29, 2014 and is now with her dad Kazuo. She will be sorely missed by her husband, John, her children Kaiya (10) and Bennett (6), her mother Hiroko, her sisters Yuki and Eri, brother-in-law Steve and nieces Emma (10) and Kloe (8). She will also be missed by her many friends around the world. In addition to her family, Miwa’s proudest achievement is her Wagamama Patries & Café which she has successfully run for over 13 years - she will be missed by her many friends and customers who were part of her daily life at Wagamama. Friends will be received at Cardinal Funeral Homes, Bathurst Chapel, 366 Bathurst Street (just north of Dundas St. W) on Sunday November 2 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm and Monday November 3 from 1:00pm to 4:00pm. Celebration of her life will be held at Metropolitan United Church, 56 Queen St. E, Toronto (at Church St) on Tuesday November 4 at 11:00am.(pre-service visitation starting at 10:00am) In memory, contributions may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.ca)) or to Kaiya and Bennett’s RESP (please contact their aunt Yuki Yamada [email protected] for details).Visitation
Date
January 01, 1970
January 01, 1970
Location
Time
Sunday 6-9 pm and Monday 1-4 pm
Sunday 6-9 pm and Monday 1-4 pm
Service
Date
November 04, 2014
November 04, 2014
Location
Metropolitan United Church - 56 Queen St E, Toronto
Metropolitan United Church - 56 Queen St E, Toronto
Time
11 am with visitation at 10am
11 am with visitation at 10am
Burial / Entombment / Cremation
Date
Location
Private Cremation To Follow
Private Cremation To Follow
Time
March 18, 2015
Having learned of Miwa's passing so many months after the fact it is so hard to believe she is gone.
My heart felt condolences go to her two young children and her husband.
I know that Wagamamma's customers will continue to patronize the establishment due to her extraordinary good will and grace.
The world will miss this beautiful woman.
November 07, 2014
Miwa, I just wish I could see you even once again. It had been nearly 12-13 years since I met you last time. It was right after you had started your cafe. I am very sorry that we didn't have a chance to see each other since I left Toronto.
Dear Miwa's beloved family,
I am very sorry to hear about your great loss. I hope that good times and memories with Miwa will comfort you when you think about them. I am sorry that my words cannot be a great encouragement! but I hope and pray that God gives you peace and comfort to each of you.
Miwa was very friendly and I was very thankful to meet her. She was very generous to help me as I just came from Japan and was not familiar to study in English when we met at a cooking class at George Brown 17 years ago.
Since I have heard this sad news, many memories with Miwa came back to me. I am very sorry that we wouldn't have a chance to share them. I wish I even had a chance to tell her that it was a blessing to meet her in my life and became friends even in a short time. She will be in my thoughts. Dear her family, I will keep you in my prayers. May God keep you in His perfect peace.
November 05, 2014
Bennet, we are deeply sorry for your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Audrey, Willem, Sandra and Ben Posthumus
November 05, 2014
I have been a Wagamama regular since I started working on King West in February. Miwa will be missed - so sorry for your loss.
November 04, 2014
Hello to Miwa's family,
We are a big fun of Wagamama Pastries since almost the year she opened the cafe on King St. I was still so young and had just immigrated to Canada from Japan. I have been in love with her strawberry shortcake and always order it when I start missing it. Today, I happened to send my husband again to pick up some cake from her cafe...then we found out about this sad news. So sad. Feeling for her family as well. I remember seeing her with her son in the stire before. She must have been such a loving, sweet mom. Her husband has been so helpful and we often received such a nice service from him as well. I hope that he and her kids will stay strong and get through this. We will be Wagamama's fun as we always have been. Hope that her store will continue on as well. Will be there again soon. Will miss her so much...
November 04, 2014
I can hardly imagine the pain of losing someone like Miwa as a family member, when even my brief interactions with her at the cafe have left such a positive and grateful impression. She brought joy to so many strangers, and humanity and a feeling of real compassion into a city that can feel very uninviting and cold to us newcomers.
I know that you are all immensely proud of her. Chris and I are so very sorry for your loss. We will remember her always and we are privileged to have met her even in brief. Our sympathies, prayers and thoughts to you all.
November 04, 2014
Please accept our deepest condolences. We are so sorry for your loss. We will always remember Miwa for her bright smile.
November 04, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss. I used to work at King and Niagara
street and would come by the cafe at least once a week. I can only imagine the grief you must be feeling but trust that she touched a lot of people and i am happy i had the chance to meet her and experience the wonderful Wagamama cafe!
Sincerely,
Kim Hennick
The Printing House
November 04, 2014
Dear Yuki and Family,
Tom and I are truly sorry to hear of such a tragic loss of your sister Miwa, we would like to extend our sincere condolences to you and your family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Sincerly Tom and Maria Dykeman (Mario's sister).
November 04, 2014
Hello.
We were shocked and saddened to learn of Miwa's passing. Miwa had a wonderful energy, and was a very kind and pleasant woman as well as a caring and empathic Mom.
Many lives will be forever changed by having met or spent time with Miwa. Many will feel great pain in this loss. But wonderfully, Miwa will also be remembered and honored by so many – personally and professionally – and her spirit and memory will be very well preserved.
Deepest condolences and blessings to John, Kaiya and Bennett, and to all family and friends.
November 04, 2014
To Miwa's family,
I am so sorry for your enormous loss. Miwa was such a genuinely welcoming and warm presence and Wagamama was such an important part of our lives when we were living in the neighborhood. I will fondly remember our conversations about motherhood and sisterhood, and all her advice to me when I was pregnant with the twins, and afterwards as well. She baked my twins first two birthday cakes! It's difficult to accept this untimely loss, and I wish the family to know that Miwa will be so fondly remembered by so many.
November 04, 2014
Sending my deepest sympathies to John and the family for the untimely passing of Miwa. She will be missed.
November 03, 2014
My heart is broken for your beautiful family. Miwa gave me such great advice over the past few months as I was expecting my second child. She was such a lovely presence who I looked forward to seeing each time I came to the cafe. I am sending so much love to all of you.
November 03, 2014
To Miwa's family and to Eri,
My sincerest condolences to your entire family. I remember Miwa so fondly in highschool, always smiling, always willing to help. Thinking of you in this difficult time.
November 03, 2014
We are truly saddened to hear this news. We will always remember Miwa's gentleness and grace with her children and her ever present smile. Thank you Miwa for making us a part of your life, we send our strength to John Kiya and Bennett.
November 03, 2014
I'm profoundly saddened by your premature loss. I've been a customer of Wagamama for at least 12 years and it wasn't just the best pastries and matcha in the city that kept me coming back, it was the warmth of Miwa, John, and the staff's aura that made the café such a special oasis. I think the general warm welcome I felt was an extension of Miwa's openness and generosity to everyone she encountered. I don't know what to say to the family that has lost such a beautiful mother, wife, sister, and daughter much too early. My heart is broken for you. I will think of Miwa often in days and years to come. Deepest condolences.
November 03, 2014
Meeting Miwa in my hometown,Imadate, about 20 years ago was one of the greatest things that happened in my life. That was simply the reason I chose Toronto to start my new life abroad,and I had warm and friendly support from her and her family. She was like a big sister to me.
Last time I met her, John, and their great kids was 4 years ago. Although I didn't get to see her often, I thought I knew where to meet her. I thought I knew that I could see her whenever I visited Toronto. Now I can see her only in my memories,and I am so hollow with sadness.
I honestly still can't face the fact, but I know that in my memories,she will be always smiling,happy,beautiful,and loved by many people.
みわ、どうぞ安らかにお眠りください。
November 03, 2014
My deepest condolences to Ms. Miwa's family, especially to John and the 2 young children. I've worked the last 10 years near the Wagamama shop which has become a beloved staple to many people in the neighborhood. I used to see Ms. Miwa walk with her children from a nearby childcare centre and would think what an amazing and accomplished woman she is, to be such a devoted mother while running a hectic and successful business. Being a mother of young children myself, words do not describe how heartbroken I am about the family's loss, I can only let them know my thoughts and prayers for strength are with them during this very difficult time. Ms. Miwa will be deeply missed by all who knew her and have been touched by her hospitality and smile.
November 03, 2014
God bless you Miwa. I will miss seeing your smiling face every morning at Waga.
November 03, 2014
I am shocked and very sad to learn of this news. Miwa was always so nice, always asked about family, how I was etc… my deepest sympathy to you John and to your family. Miwa seemed like a real force!
November 03, 2014
My husband and I were very sad to hear about Miwa. We used to live on King West, and stopping at Wagamama on my way to work was a morning ritual. Miwa was always so welcoming, and would have my jasmine tea and scone ready for me before I'd even said hello. Our deepest sympathies.
November 03, 2014
Such sad and shocking news - wishing the family much love and tenderness for this difficult time. Miwa was a wonderful woman and her smile is shining bright on all of you. Hugs!
November 03, 2014
Our deepest condolences to Miwa's family and friends. Sending you all strength in this difficult time.
November 03, 2014
My deepest condolences to you John, and all the family.
November 03, 2014
Miwa was just a solid person. Hard working and always in high spirits. She will be sorely missed.
November 03, 2014
My family and I have had the pleasure of knowing Miwa since the café opened when her and June were new business operators making the fluffiest bread, crispiest croissants and most delicious cakes with the best icing I have ever had!! I also operate a small business, so we compared notes for years on an almost weekly basis, the challenges of keeping a business viable and struggles of balancing a small family amidst a 40/ 50/ 60 hour work week, also sharing our tips and trying to figure out the accounting program QuickBooks. We had a lot in common, especially our always being behind in getting that GST/HST dealt with in time before the penalties came rolling in. I found it very inspirational how she always seem to be positive no matter how hard things got. Watching her interact with her customers/friends showed me how nice of a person she truly was. When she was exceptionally busy and you were placing a complicated order, she never made you feel rushed. I also felt that if she asked you how you were doing ..... she sincerely wanted to know!! My father and her got along very well as he loved the bread pudding and sauce, also, had helped her fix a couple of appliances. On his passing, she encouraged Scott and I to plant the Red Maple tree in front of the café as a memorial to him. This smart lady had a very strong intuitive sense. I will truly miss our little minute meetings as well as the supply runs to food basics. Deepest sympathies for her whole family. Our broken hearts will miss her dearly.
November 03, 2014
I was a regular when I worked in the neighbourhood and Miwa was so warm and welcoming. Seeing her walking "mini-Miwa" to and from daycare always put a smile on my face. She was a special woman and I wish you all love and strength at this sad time.
November 03, 2014
We are deeply sorry for your loss and our thoughts are prayers are with your family. You are surrounded by love and support of family and friends.
November 03, 2014
Miwa was a very special human being! A brilliant light in a sometimes muddled world.....
May you John find comfort in all your memories and your cherished children.
Blessings and love to you & your children,
November 03, 2014
Our deepest condolences. We used to frequent Wagamama all the time when we lived on Niagara street, and Miwa was always so friendly and welcoming. We are so sorry to hear of her untimely passing.
Sandy Pereira and Jason Wagner
November 02, 2014
Miwa and I were in Fukui together almost 20 years ago. Her zest for life and delicious food were ever present in Japan and obviously followed her home. I always wanted to visit Wagamama and will still make it a point to someday in her memory. She will be missed! My condolences to her loving family.
November 02, 2014
Devasted by Miwa's sudden death. As loyal customers since she and June first opened Wagamama, Miwa was an important part of our King St Community. She was as excellent a person as she was a baker. She will be missed. Thoughts go out to John, Kaiya, Bennett and the rest of the family
Evan & Bryan
November 02, 2014
Our deepest most heartfelt condolences to you John and the family! We have loved Miwa for the last 13 years as clients at the cafe. She nourished us with her food and her gentle care for so many years. We cannot believe she is gone from this world so quickly. I am sure she is with the angels on the other side. We are in europe right now or we would be there. Sending all our love and support during this time. We will miss her sweet face every day....Yours, Marla and Ron (Downward Dog Yoga Centre).
November 02, 2014
I met Miwa and John when I moved into the neighbourhood. I was hoping for a local coffee shop to make my own and I did. Miwa's "do you want your usual" was comforting. We talked politics, food, allergies, life and I was either there Saturday or Sunday, basking in the sunshine, eating some delicious delicacies and talking to either Miwa or to John, or if I was lucky, to both. And sometimes their kids were there too. I last spoke to Miwa mid-October. She was sitting down (highly unusual) and said she was having trouble breathing. John was busy helping customers and all friendly as usual, but I knew he must be frantic inside and I felt helpless. Miwa was such a lovely woman. My heart aches with the loss for her family and for my own selfish reasons. Origato, Miwa.
November 02, 2014
Dear Miwa
I had such a wonderful time with you in Toronto.
Just so you know I have never had such a great friend.
I can't say how important you have been to me.....
I will miss you a lot and love forever.
November 02, 2014
John... it is with sadness that I found out about the passing of Miwa. Since the opening months of Wagamama Pastries , the patrons, the food and most importantly the people behind the cafe including you and Miwa have been an importantly part of my life (and many many many weekends) for almost 14 years. My thoughts to you, your two young kids, your staff and your extended family. Please know you have a lot of support and love in the community.
Thinking of you,
Nick I
November 02, 2014
John... it is with sadness that I found out about the passing of Miwa. Since the opening months of Wagamama Pastries , the patrons, the food and most importantly the people behind the cafe including you and Miwa have been an importantly part of my life (and many many many weekends) for almost 14 years. My thoughts to you, your two young kids, your staff and your extended family. Please know you have a lot of support and love in the community.
Thinking of you all,
Nick I.
November 02, 2014
My condolences to your family. You're all in my prayers.
November 02, 2014
Dear John,
Wayne, Brandon and I are heartbroken - actually I think the whole neighborhood is. Miwa was truly loved and will be dearly missed.
Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids. Carol Bourque
November 02, 2014
John, Kaiya and Bennett, you guys are so lucky to have had such a lovely wife and mother. The whole community misses her. Be strong knowing she'll always be with you. big hugs xoxo
November 02, 2014
I was shocked and deeply saddened on hearing the news of Miwa's passing. My deepest condolences.
November 01, 2014
When I worked on King W, Wagamama was a welcome addition to the street. Miwa was a warm, welcoming person, serving beautiful pastries, lunches, coffee, and teas. I spent many a lunch hour there.
I remember her expecting her daughter and the conversations about daycare and busyness of life.
Thinking of you all and your family, Yuki, during this very sad time.
Sincerely Ann Partington
November 01, 2014
Miwa was an extraordinary person. She was unassuming yet very accomplished and very intellectually aware. She made everyone feel comfortable and valued no matter how busy she would get. I recall good conversations about her children's progress at school and discussing with her about the best education the kids could receive. She was very perceptive about her kids' needs and desires. She was an excellent Mom who showed her love for her kids and her husband in so many ways in a low key manner but with depth of vision. I miss talking with her, seeing her smile and laugh, hearing her express her ideas. She was a rare human being to be remembered and cherished--an example to us all.
In loving memory, Gord Doctorow
November 01, 2014
John, Kaiya and Bennet,
It's hard to imagine our lives without Miwa. I've seen her most days of the last 12 years that I've lived over Wagamama. All of you have become such an important part of our day to day patterns. Our kids think of Wagamama as their second kitchen and its because of the kindness and warmth that they always received from all of you. Miwa created something special with the cafe, a true hub of the community. Although she was always self-deprecating, it was clear how much she cared about every little detail in the cafe and how much she cared about her customers. I felt a real friendship with her from the start. I'll treasure the many conversations we had about our kids, work, food, travel and so many other things. I'm sure you know how much she adored all of you. We'll miss her terribly.
Ceri, Ben, Esme and Julian.
November 01, 2014
I cannot even begin to imagine what you are going through and how difficult it must for you.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Miwa was such a gentle and kind person, she will certainly be missed and will always be remembered.
November 01, 2014
I'm so sorry.
I would like to tell for Miwa ' thank you for everything'
Our thoughts are with you and your family at this most difficult time of loss.
November 01, 2014
Hugs...
November 01, 2014
So sorry to hear of this loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
November 01, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the family as you seek to find solace in the wonderful memories you have of Miwa - loving daughter, sister, wife, mother and friend.
