Emiko Kaita

Emiko Kaita, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and a long time Watsonville resident, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024, at the age of 97. Emiko was born on April 6, 1927 to parents Hikoichi and Yaeko Tara. She was raised by her mother, Yaeko, and stepfather, Saburo Oda in Selma along with her four sisters.

Emiko was a devoted wife to her late husband of 69 years, Roy Kaita, and a loving mother to her five children: Cheryl Lynn (Vince) Itatani, Patti (Lester) Ikegami, Brad Kaita (deceased), Susan (Dennis) Ikegami, and Laurie (Ted) Matsushita. She was also a cherished grandmother to nine grandchildren: Derek (Joanna) Itatani, Michael (Amber) Ikegami, Kellene Ikegami, Lesli (Cassie) Itatani, Teri (David) Barclay, Jeff Ikegami, Lindsay (Justin) Ito, Brad Matsushita (Dan McAlister), and Jenny Matsushita and five great-grandchildren: Cassie Itatani, Kylie Barclay, Blake Barclay, Carrie Itatani, and Zach Ito. Emiko was preceded in death by her husband (Roy), son (Brad), mother (Yaeko), father (Hikoichi), stepfather (Saburo), siblings: Yoshiye Kaita, Toshiko Tsudama, Fujiko Sasaki, Chiyeko Tara, and in laws: Chiyoko (Tokio) Fuji, Kiyomi Kaita, Yaeko (Taira) Fujimoto, Mitsue (Minoru) Tao, and Makoto (Ayako) Kaita. 

Emiko lived a full and vibrant life, filled with love, laughter, and adventure. She was known for her generosity, strength and her unconditional love for her family and friends. She was an avid casino-goer, traveler (loved Japan), and golfer, and she was always up for a good time especially in Vegas. She was also a talented baker, and her pies were legendary among her family and friends. 

Emiko will be missed by all that knew her. In a recent interview, Emiko mentioned “My family is my whole life & I thank them so much for everything! I am truly the luckiest person in the world.” Her family would say they are the lucky ones, grateful for her unconditional love, guidance, and encouragement over the years. 

A private family service will be held on October 25, 2024