Obituary of Dora Salute Kawakami

Our dear mother, passed away at age 91, on January 29, 2012 at Kaiser Permanente South, following complications from kidney disease. She was born June 21, 1920 in Signoressa, Italy. She was the fifth of six children born into the family of Dominico and Giovanna Bordignon. She met and married Sam Kawakami who was stationed with the 442nd regiment in Italy during WWII. In 1947, they returned to the U.S., settling in Hood, CA. In 1950 they moved to Elk Grove, CA, where she resided until her death. Preceded in death by her parents; husband, Sam; three brothers, Rino, Angelo, and Luigi; sisters Armida and Maria; and son, Eddy. Survived by her children, Lillian (Jerry) Glantz; George Kawakami; Don Kawakami; grandson, Brian Glantz; granddaughter, Sherry Eaton; great-grandson, Datone Eaton; numerous nieces and nephews in the U.S. and Italy; and her loving dog and constant companion, Annie. Mom devoted her life to her family, friends, and the numerous stray animals that she took in and loved as her pets. She always put others before herself, and will be deeply missed. She loved attending the opera and enjoyed frequent visits to her family in Lake Como, Italy. In 1955, she took great pride in becoming a U.S. citizen. She was baptized as a member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, a member of the Churchill Downs Congregation, and held firmly to the hope of a resurrection. The family would like to thank the staff at RAI-Elk Grove and her doctors at Kaiser Permanente South for all their support and care. Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing on Tues. Feb. 7, 2012 from 4-8pm at Sacramento Memorial Lawn. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012 at 1:00pm at the Vintage Park Kingdom Hall, B Side, 9436 Calvine Rd., Elk Grove, CA. Cryptside services will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA or charity of your choice.