My father was a part of seven siblings. The Japanese used to have big family. Each of the siblings got a spouse, and they all had one or two children.
As such, there were many uncles, aunts and cousins for me.
When there was a family gathering for summer festival, Mochitsuki (rice cake making) for new year's preparation, wedding or funeral, most of the family showed up. Adults were partying with foods and drinks, and kids (cousins) were playing games in another room.
Looking back, now I know it was a big tight-knit family.
This week I heard from my sister that on 9/16/2023, the last of the original seven Yamada siblings, aunt Chiyoko passed away in Japan.
I took some time to reminisce, and sent a condolences card to my cousins.
Aunt Chiyoko and her family were very helpful to my family. When I was very young, aunt Chiyoko was babysitting me and helping out my parents.
The seven siblings from my grandfather's side are now all gone.
Toshio
Chiyoko
Miyoko
Shizuo
Akira (my father)
Kiichi
Katsutaro
We used to call each family with the name of their residence's location. Uncle Toshio and his family lived in Toyooka, so we called him Uncle of Toyooka.
Not much of a nostalgia-indulging guy, I hardly take time to remember the past.
Aunt Chiyoko's passing gave me an opportunity to do so.
And such a blessing I've had.
