Kyoko Sasaki Howell, a beloved longtime resident of Richland, Washington, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026 at the age of 96. She was born in Hakodate City, Hokkaido, Japan, and made Richland her home for the past five decades.

In 1976 Kyoko married the love of her life, Wallace Howell. Their partnership endured until Wallace’s passing in 2004, and together they built a life marked by quiet strength, shared adventure, and deep community involvement.

Kyoko was soft‑spoken yet fiercely independent. An avid reader and musician, she delighted in classical music, playing both piano and Irish harp. Her love of travel took her from a halibut‑fishing expedition in Alaska to the ancient pyramids of Egypt, and she cherished every new horizon.

A lifelong skier, Kyoko continued to hit the slopes well into her 70s, relishing the exhilaration of fresh powder and the camaraderie of the ski community—proof that age never limited her pursuits.

Since moving to Richland in the early 1970s, Kyoko became an active member of the local Japanese cultural association and helped bridge traditions between Japan and the Pacific Northwest. Her warm spirit, generosity, and willingness to lend a hand made her a cherished neighbor, mentor, and friend.

Survived by:

Sister: Yoko Sasaki Lugo

Preceded in death:

Husband: Wallace Howell (2004)

Sister: Masako Sasaki Yorioka