George Tsugawa: 1921-2020

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George Tsugawa, 99, passed away peacefully Nov. 27, 2020, in Vancouver, Wash. He was born in Everett, Wash., June 20, 1921, son of Masaichiro and Kazuno Tsugawa, Japanese immigrants.

George spent much of his childhood working at the family’s produce stand and taking care of his family, since his father died at a very young age. In high school, George enjoyed playing basketball. He graduated from Beaverton High School in 1939.

During World War II, George was incarcerated at Minidoka War Relocation Center in Idaho with his family. He has shared recollections of time spent there as a message of hope during hard times.

On April 1, 1950, George married the love of his life, Mable Taniguchi. In 1955, George and Mable moved to Woodland, Wash., to establish the Tsugawa Brothers Farm with his brother, Akira. Work on the farm was a family affair. As his children grew up, they spent many days and summers working on the farm, also.

In 1981, Mable opened Tsugawa Nursery. Together, they would spend the rest of their lives transforming a small business into a destination garden center in Woodland, Wash. George treasured being surrounded by loved ones, and enjoyed his church community at the Woodland Presbyterian Church. In 2013, he was selected ‘Citizen of the Year’ by the Woodland Chamber of Commerce.

Always the farmer, George could be found in the greenhouses or in his garage working on plants. His work ethic, charisma, and legacy will be remembered by friends and family.

George is survived by his children, Mary Lynn, Lori, Karen, and Brian; brother, James; and sister, Helen; 12 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by wife, Mable; sons, Martin and Dan; two sisters; and two brothers.

In lieu of flowers, consider contributing to the Woodland Presbyterian Church. A service will be held at a later date.