Himeko "Hime" Suyematsu passed away peacefully at home on June 25, 2024, at the age of 98, with her family by her side. Born on November 8, 1925, in Fife, WA, Hime was the sixth of seven children of Chojiro and Hana Kawabata. She grew up on the family farm until World War II and their forced relocation to the Minidoka internment camp. Hime graduated from Hunt High School during the incarceration. In 1951, Hime married Isamu "Ish" Suyematsu. They raised two children, Ron and Darlene, and farmed for 38 years, first in the Kent Valley and then operating Suyematsu Berry Farm on Green Valley Road in Auburn from 1962 to 1989. The family suffered a heartbreaking loss when Ish passed away unexpectedly in July 1989. With the help of family and friends, Hime had one last strawberry season in 1990 before retiring from the farm life she so dearly loved. Hime lived independently at her Auburn home until moving to an assisted living facility in Renton in 2011.

Hime is survived by son, Ron Suyematsu, daughter, Darlene Suyematsu and partner Mark Jablonski; grandpup Ellie, and a large, loving, extended family of sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. They all contributed to Hime's long and happy life. The family also thanks the staff at Merrill Gardens Renton Centre, and Golden Moments Adult Family Home, for their care and support of Hime during the last chapter of her life.

Private services have been held. Memorial donations may be made to the White River Buddhist Temple or a charity of your choice.