Maureen Hiroko Tsuchiya passed away on August 28, 2026, at the age of 95.
Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, on June 30, 1931, Maureen spent about ten years of her childhood in Fukuoka, Japan, before and during the Second World War. She became fluent in spoken and written Japanese. After returning to Vancouver, she studied bookkeeping at vocational school and later worked as a bookkeeper.
Maureen married George Tsuchiya on January 7, 1956. They raised their five children—Linda, David, Alan, Grace, and Julie—while living for nearly 17 years in Donald and Golden, British Columbia. The family moved to Burnaby in October 1972.
Family was central to Maureen’s life. For more than 35 years, Sunday dinners at her home were a cherished tradition. She also hosted the family’s Japanese New Year’s Day celebration for much of her married life and preserved treasured family recipes.
Maureen and George enjoyed travelling and participated in the Japanese Canadian community. They shared 68 years of marriage before George died on April 12, 2024.
Maureen was predeceased by her husband, George. She is survived by her children Linda (the late Murray), David (Shannon), Alan, Grace (Martin), and Julie (Dan); her brother, Katsumi Hanada; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
The family expressed gratitude to the staff at Dufferin Care Centre for the kindness and care Maureen received during the final 14 months of her life. A private family celebration of life will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to an organization of the donor’s choice.
Source: Dignity Memorial
