Keiko Takayama Takahashi Obituary (1949

Keiko Takayama Takahashi, our beloved sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend was called home and passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 10, 2024, in American Fork, Utah, at the age of 75. Her passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Keiko was born on April 27, 1949, in the serene town of Fujimi, Japan, to Katsuzo and Masuko Takayama. As a young child, she found joy in exploring the family farm; nurturing a love for nature that would stay with her throughout her life. She attended Fujimi Elementary, Fujimi Junior High, and Nodai-Niko High School, where she developed a strong work ethic and a passion for learning. On December 24, 1971, Keiko married Kuniyuki Takahashi, in Maebashi, Japan. At the age of 22, Keiko courageously left her homeland to be close to a temple and pursue higher education in Laie, Hawaii at the Church College of Hawaii. Six months later, with special permission from President Joseph Fielding Smith, they were sealed by Elder Adney Y. Komatsu for time and all eternity in the Laie Temple on July 11, 1972. A sacred bond that would sustain them through life’s joys and challenges. Her education then continued to Provo, Utah, where she completed her degree in English at Brigham Young University. Her valiant spirit and determination were evident in every step of her journey. Keiko’s life was a testament to love, kindness and service. She possessed a pure and gentle spirit, always seeking to uplift those around her. Her heart was open, and her words were kind; she never spoke guile. Her great passion was her family, and she dedicated her life to nurturing and supporting them. Keiko had a long and distinguished career as a Japanese translator, sharing her culture with the world. She was also a skilled tour guide, a Japanese tea ceremony master, and a proficient flower arranger. Her talents extended to her role as a homemaker, where she created a warm and loving environment for her family. You could often find her in the kitchen. One of her greatest joys was to be with and enjoy her family and friends gathering together to eat a meal she lovingly and carefully prepared. Throughout her life, Keiko faced challenges with grit, grace and resilience, including the loss of her first baby at Kahuku Hospital. Her patience, strength and faith carried her through, and she continued to bless the lives of her family and friends with her unwavering love and compassion. Keiko is survived by her devoted husband, Kuniyuki Takahashi, and their children: Rosie (Mark) Lawton, Kunimichi (LeeAnn) Takahashi, Hiroyuki (Rachel) Takahashi, Isayuki Takahashi, and Sachiyo (Matt) Dale. She is also survived by her 13 beloved grandchildren, her brother Junichi Takayama, and her sister Yoko Nakamura. Keiko was preceded in death by her parents, Katsuzo and Masuko Takayama. The funeral service to honor Keiko Takahashi’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 11:15 a.m. at the Lakeridge Stake Center, 158 E 1100 S, Orem, UT 84058. A viewing will be held earlier that day from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., where family and friends can gather to pay their respects. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bergmortuary.com. Keiko will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her deep connection to the Savior, and her lifelong dedication to serving others. Her legacy of kindness and grace will continue to inspire all who knew her.