Hisako (Taira) Rexroth

Hisako Rexroth, 87, of Columbia, passed away on Monday, August 20, 2018.

The youngest of four children, Hisako Rexroth was born to Kijiro and Rin Taira in Ome, Japan on November 2, 1930.  She met her husband Art Rexroth when he was stationed in Japan by the U.S. Army. They resided in Marina, California, following Art`s retirement from military service. Their home became a haven for family and friends, who enjoyed the many scenic attractions of the Monterey Peninsula as well as Hisako's gracious hospitality and wonderful meals. She was known for her remarkable ability to anticipate the needs of others and to provide for them without fuss, yet always with a warm smile.

Hisako had a particular gift for working with her hands: it seemed there was nothing she couldn't make or mend. Her ability led her to work as a tailor for many years at the Fort Ord military base. Among her interests were sports, especially baseball and football. She even served as an enthusiastic Little League manager. She was an avid bowler and a skillful card player who enjoyed poker and gin rummy. Her other loves included caring for babies and toddlers, tending homeless animals as well as her own pets, and taking long walks with friends. She had a special fondness for doughnuts, yellow roses, and chocolate.

Hisako moved to Columbia, Missouri, in 2010, shortly after Art died. They had been married for 60 years. Her relocation led to new friends and activities, among them quilting events where she was able to share her sewing skills as well as her sense of humor. Those who met her realized what many others has also seen over the years: she faced life with an abundance of energy, dignity and grace, touching the hearts of all she encountered with a humble display of kindness and appreciation.

Hisako was preceded in death by her husband, Art; her parents, Kijiro and Rin Taira; and her siblings, Tokiko, lchiro, and Ejiro. She is survived by her son John (Carol) their children Stephanie (Laurie), Johnny, Sam and Emily of Davis, California, daughter Linda (Clair Willcox) of Columbia, Missouri, their children Beth (Jeremiah), Mark (Jenn}, and Brian {Dianna), and daughter Donna (Jon Kennedy) Of Chantilly, Virginia, their children Matthew and Katelyn, great grandchildren Holly, Lily, Gabrain, Sirion, and Darien, and nephews Dale Anderson, Chuck and Jim Delong.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Columbia Parks and Recreation (for a tree/bench in the dog park) or Unchained Melodies (dog rescue).

We will see friends and family for an informal celebration of the life led by Hisako. We will meet at Bach-Yager Funeral Chapel, 1610 N. Garth, on September 15, 2018 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

We thank you for your thoughts, calls, cards, and kind words. If you have a story to share, please send it to Linda Rexroth, 5110 North Route E, Columbia, Missouri 65202.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Hisako (Taira) Rexroth, please visit our floral store.