It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of some individuals who meant so much to the Chicago Okinawa Kenjinkai.

Chieko Bevier
A Former member of the Chicago Okinawa Kenjinkai

Thomas W. Schmidling

Father of kenjinkai member Christian Schmidling

Thomas W. Schmidling, age 70, of Sleepy Hollow, died on Thursday, May 18, at his home. He was born in July 1935, the eldest son of John and Cordelia, nee Peot, Schmidling in Milwaukee, WI. Tom proudly served his country as a Sgt. 1st Class in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955. After a successful career in sales, Tom retired to pursue his love of hunting. He was an avid world-wide big game hunter and fisherman. Tom had several recorded trophies and holds the world record for Korean Water Deer. Tom spent the last few years writing a book on submarines, hunting locally with his son Christian and playing with his grandbaby Nikki. Tom is survived by his son Christian (Paula) Schmidling; his granddaughters Theresa and Nikki; his brother Jack (Marilyn) Schmidling and his sister Mary (Bob) Peterson.

Bill Peterson

Bill Peterson the husband of Mieko Peterson passed away on Wednesday, June 14th. His wife, Mieko-san was a former Sanshin player with the Chicago Okinawa Kenjinkai's Sanshin Group. Both recently attended the annual Kenjinkai Picinic with their daughter. Bill Will be missed by all who knew him.

The Chicago Okinawa Kenjinkai would like to express that in this time of sadness our thoughts of heartfelt sympathy are with their families. We will truly miss them and the joy they brought to all of us.

Glenn Asato

Chicago Okinawa Kenjinkai Member and Master of Ceremonies

He was our friend and our brother. One who gave unselfishly of himself to the organization, helping us to build a strong family atmosphere through his exzuberance and volunteer spirit. When we think of Glenn we should not think of him as gone away for he will live on in the hearts and memories of us all. Remember Glenn for the great man that he was, a man who possessed an extraordinary love of life and family. Through his memory we will continue to honor him and by expressing the joy and vitality he taught us, our sorrows will pass.

Through Glenn, many of us have learned to accept all that life has to offer and to turn every possible opportunity into a celebration. He was a true inspiration to us all and he will be missed but not FORGOTTEN ..........Rest in Peace Friend