Kikue Kowell

Kikue Kowell passed away peacefully on April 14, 2016. She was 93 years old. Kikue Matamura Kowell was born July 23, 1922 in a village named Hakodate in southern Hokkaido (northern island) Japan. Her parents were Kanjuro and Kie Matamura who were descendants of the Matamura samari clan. Her family were ship builders before moving to Tokyo, Japan. Kikue met her husband, Sydney J. Kowell in Tokyo after the war and were married for 51 years before his death in January of 2001. They lived in Japan for several tours of duties. They eventually settled at Kirtland Air Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico where they raised their four children, Marie Garcia, Tom Kowell, Debbie Smith and Fred Kowell. She also is survived by her grandchildren, Jason Smith (son of Scott and Debbie Smith), Aimee Kowell, Joel Kowell, Tiffany Carnie (children of Tom and Cindy Kowell), and Natalie and Izzy Kowell (children of Fred and Janice Kowell). In addition, she is survived by a great grandchild, Emma Leigh Carnie (child of Tiffany and Kenneth Carnie). She was preceeded in death by one brother and sister. Kikue Kowell was a barber and skilled tailor through the war years. She met her husband as his barber. She continued her trade in Albuquerque, but later worked at the University of New Mexico for 26 years where she retired. She loved being with her grandchildren and helping out her children during visits. This was exhibited by her traveling throughout the world to see them. She always kept busy, loved sewing and cooking. Although small in stature she was a strong and determined lady. She loved animals and seemed to acquire new dogs from friends who could no longer care for the animals. She will now be reunited with her husband, Sydney. She will be missed greatly and will always be in our thoughts. The family wishes to express appreciation to Dr. Suzanne Pinon, Blanca Gasson, and the staff at Unlimited Care for the thoughtful care they provided to Kikue in her final years. A service will be held on Monday, April 25, 2016, 1:30 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery.


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