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Debra Takasumi
07/16/1952 — 11/19/2019
From Kennewick, WA | Born in Richland, WA
Celebration of Life
Debra Takasumi
Debra Ann Takasumi, 67, of Kennewick, WA, passed away on November 19, 2019, with her family by her side. She was born on July 16, 1952 in Richland, WA to Paul and Utako Fujihara.
Debby graduated from Kennewick High School in 1970. Following graduation, she attended Willamette University and Washington State University. In January of 1972, she married Dennis Takasumi, her husband of 47 years. She spent the next four years traveling with her husband in the Navy, living in: Chicago, San Francisco, and Yokosuka, Japan. While living in Japan, she taught conversational English in Yokohama and served as a preschool teacher at the Navy base. She traveled to: Hong Kong, the Philippines, Singapore, Bangkok and Taiwan where she was able to ride elephants, charm snakes and visit many, many temples.
In 1975, Debby and Dennis returned to Kennewick, WA where they remained for the next 44 years. Together they raised three amazing children. She returned to school and graduated from Eastern Washington University in 1989 with a Bachelors in Education. She spent the next 24 years teaching first grade at Edison Elementary, the same school that she had attended as a student herself. It was a true passion and her students were everything to her.
Debby enjoyed being an active grandma, golfing, traveling, spending time with friends and family, and caring for others. She never missed a sporting event, babysitting, special event, or opportunity to make them smile.
She was always giving and supportive of those around her. She had an amazing spirit. For many in her community, she was their rock.
Debby is survived by her husband Dennis Takasumi, son Kris (Joy) Takasumi, daughters Alexis (Shane) Takasumi West, and Logan Meyers. Granddaughters: Chloe Meyers, Lily Meyers, and Eleanor West. Sisters: Sue (Aaron) Fujihara Ward, Jami Fujihara, Tammy Fujihara, and brother Steve (Mary) Fujihara.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Einan’s at Sunset Funeral Home in Richland, WA on Saturday, December 7th at 10:30 a.m. There will be a reception following at J. Bookwalter Winery in Richland, WA from 1-3 p.m.
Dennis and family, we were so sorry to hear of Debbie’s passing. She was such a vibrant person, full of life and love. It was a shock to hear of her illness. I know she was an incredible wife, mother, and grandmother. You will keep that forever in your hearts. When you think of the young people she has influenced over the years, with her teaching, I hope you realize what a wide reaching influence she has had. All our best going forward.
Debby was definitely dedicated to her students. I taught 1st grade 9 years with Debby. During this time I heard many stories about the family to point I felt like I knew each member. She was so proud of her family and especially her children.
Debra was always an encouragement to me, she was a great golf buddy playing with her competitive spirit she truly pushed me to do better in golf and life. She was always so proud of her family. I will truly miss her smile on the golf course. ~ Rita J Winegardner
Debby was a member of the Battelle Women’s Golf League. Everyone wanted to play with Debby because she was fun and never in a bad mood. We missed her when she retired and could play during the day. Hit ’em hard Debby, I am sure the greens are perfect up there!
Dear Tammy and family,
We’re very sorry for your loss.
You’ve touched so many lives and were a loving teacher, friend, and neighbor. We will miss you!
Dennis and Family, my sincerest condolences. I will definitely miss our friendship and golfing together.
Beautiful woman who was so proud of her grandchildren. I will miss playing golf with her.
Guestbook for
Debra Takasumi