Masako Janet Kubosumi

Masako Janet (Shiotani) Kubosumi, loving mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, at the age of 87. She was born on January 28, 1939.

Mom was known for her kind heart, generous spirit, and thoughtful nature. She lived an independent but full and adventurous life. She was born in Brigham City, Utah, on January 28, 1939, to Masao Shiotani and Michiko Mori Shiotani. At 18 months, she moved to Shirahama, Japan with her oldest brother and cousin, where she was raised, learned traditional Japanese dance, and later cared for her grandmother.

She returned to the United States at 17 years old and worked on the family farm in Box Elder County before moving to Salt Lake City. There she worked at a Japanese restaurant, learned to sew, and became a talented seamstress. She also learned English and attended night school in Salt Lake City to earn her high school diploma in 1960.

Family was the center of her world. She cherished time spent with her children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories together. She is survived by her three children, David (Linda), Pam, and Teresa, and two beloved grandchildren, Cole and Kacie (Adam) Gaskins, who will forever carry her love and lessons with them.

She had many passions that filled her life with joy. She loved gardening and took great pride in creating beautiful spaces around her home. A talented seamstress and knitter, she loved sharing her handmade creations with family and friends. She also enjoyed cooking, staying active at the gym, hosting family and friends, and spending time at Warm Lake and Miracle Hot Springs with family. She was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved.

An adventurous spirit, Mom enjoyed traveling and experiencing new places. With Dad, she helped keep the family farm going while still making time to travel to England, Germany, Japan, Hawaii, and Alaska. Throughout the lower 48, they traveled with close friends to see Mount Rushmore, experience the fall colors of New England, and visit Branson, Missouri.

After Dad passed, she continued traveling, making memorable journeys through Japan and Spain and visiting Sedona and the Grand Canyon in Arizona. She loved being out on the water and was always ready for a quick trip to visit family, which brought her great happiness.

Those who knew Mom will remember her warmth, generosity, and the way she made everyone feel welcome in her home and heart. Her legacy lives on in the family she loved so deeply and the many lives she touched with her kindness.

The family would like to thank the St. Luke's Hospice staff for the compassionate care and comfort they provided to our Mom.