IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Florence S.

Florence S. Yoshida Profile Photo

Yoshida

April 2, 2023

Obituary

Florence (Flo) Yoshida, 83, passed away peacefully, with her family by her side. She was born in Venice, California, in 1939 – her early years were pleasant, spent in the sunny beachfront community of Hermosa Beach.

The tranquility of beach life was disrupted when the Domoto family was uprooted from their home as part of Executive Order 9066 during World War II. Taking only what they could fit in a suitcase, the family was forcefully relocated to an assembly center at Santa Anita Race Track, then moved inland to the Granada War Relocation Center, also called Camp Amache, in Southern Colorado. Enduring harsh living conditions, Flo, her parents, and her younger brother Terry (born in the camp) resided at Camp Amache until the war ended.

The family settled in Denver after their release with no property or possessions awaiting their return in California. In 1949, Florence welcomed another younger brother, Milton.

Flo attended Cheltenham Elementary, Cole Junior High, and Manual High School. She participated in extra-curricular activities during high school, including the All-School Show, pep club, and tap-dancing performances.

Although she earned a scholarship to the Colorado Women's College, Flo pursued beauty school at the Emily Griffith Opportunity School before embarking on a beautician career. She worked for Bellva Beauty Salon, established in 1935, and eventually purchased it from its owner in 1986 after 23 years as an employee. Flo's skill and business acumen took the salon to greater heights. The downtown-based salon flourished with a loyal following, and she was even featured in The Downtown Walker , chronicling her entrepreneurial achievements.

Flo had many hobbies, including gambling in Las Vegas and Blackhawk, gardening, and bowling. At a bowling banquet, Flo would meet her future husband, Mas Yoshida, who had recently returned home to Denver following his military service. Mas and Flo were married in 1963, making their home in Northwest Denver. Together the couple pursued a life of adventure, traveling the world and flying to different destinations across the country in the small airplane Mas built himself. Flo being the "co-pilot," was trained in response procedures should an emergency occur while in the air. When not flying themselves to different locations, the couple enjoyed taking trips with their friends and family members. The couple, known for their kindness and generosity, were married for over 50 years. Although they had no children, they were beloved by their nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Following her husband's passing, Flo remained fiercely independent. She enjoyed eating out – treating family members and friends to good meals. She managed home improvement projects and relaxed, watching Hallmark movies, Broncos games, and Investigation Discovery. During Flo's last days, she bravely battled an aggressive form of cancer yet maintained her sharp intellect, impeccable memory, keen sense of humor, and loving disposition.

Flo's memory endures in the hearts of her brother Milton, sisters-in-law Nancy, Suzan, and Sandy, as well as her nieces and nephews. Flo was predeceased by her husband Mas, her parents, brother Terry, and brothers-in-law Kenny and Ted.

At her request, private services will be held in her honor.

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