Passed away peacefully at Copper Terrace, Long Term Care Home, August 27, 2025 in her 92nd year. She was born in Vancouver, B.C., November 1933, daughter of the late Chiyo (Kageshita) and Yasutaro Sugiyama.
Loving mother of Constance and husband Randy Paré of Toronto, beloved wife of late husband Rudy Stacho (2005), May is predeceased by her daughter Tina Marie Stacho niece Shirley Miyagaki, and nephew Richard Blake Cosby, sisters Sumiko Sugiyama, Sally McNairney and Toky Cosby, brothers Tom Miyagaki, Shigeru, Peter and Kiyoshi Sugiyama, brother in laws Mick McNairney, Richard Cosby, Gerald DesLauriers, Milan Stacho and Paul Stacho, sister in laws, Noreko Miyagaki, Anne DesLauriers, Diane Stacho and mother and father in law, Martin and Eva Stacho.
May is also survived by sister in law Louise Sugiyama of Vancouver, Janet Sugiyama of Chatham, and Joanne Stacho of Bothwell, along with several nieces, nephews and grand nephews.
May retired from South Western Regional Centre. She also worked at Loebs IGA. She gave of her time at St. Paul’s-Victoria Avenue Pantry dedicated to serve those in need. In her early years (1950s) May worked at the family restaurant, “Stardust,” in Chatham, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
May, blessed with good health, maintained her vim and vigour at the YMCA where she learned to swim in her later years. She enjoyed this newfound interest with regular attendance and daily walks outside.
May, loving mother, beloved wife, caring aunt was devoted to her family and friends and will be very much missed.
Friends and relatives may visit at the Hinnegan Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM on Monday September 15, 2025.
A Chapel Service will then be conducted in the Funeral Home Chapel at 1:00 pm with Rev. Greg Simpson officiating.
Cremation will follow.
Donations to St. Paul’s-Victoria Avenue United Church or Alzheimer’s Society of Canada would be appreciated.
