Monarch Society
Mary T. Nishiyama
( January 25, 1928 - December 4, 2020 )
Known as the “Little General” by her fellow Simpson United Methodist Church friends and members, “Italian Mary” and “Jewish Mary” by her ethnic friends who wanted to claim her as their own, “Baachan” and “Teru” as a treasured icon in her family. Mary Teruko Nishiyama was known for her bright smile, quick laughter, steadfast friendships, exemplary leadership and generous spirit.
Born on January 25th, 1928 in Ft. Lupton, Colorado, Mary was the first daughter of eight children born to Teizo and Tsuyu Hatasaka, first generation (Issei) Brighton farmers. Mary passed, went to heaven, on December 4, 2020 after a battle with a fractured hip and Covid19.
Mary was happily married to Massey Nishiyama in Denver, Colorado, on January 9, 1964. They loved traveling with family and friends, bowling, skiing, golfing, playing cards, good food and family. Massey passed in 2007.
Mary’s passion was the Japanese community. Mary was a long-time leader for Simpson Methodist Church. Over the years she was the unspoken chairperson for the Simpson Bazaar, the Church’s main fundraising event. She organized Hina Matsuri, the spring festival, also known as Girls’ Day in Japan. This event housed the largest Japanese doll festival in the U.S. and featured all aspects of traditional Japanese culture. Mary also organized Simpson’s Mochi Making.
Mary served as the treasurer for the Nikkeijin Kai of Colorado (formerly the Japanese Association of Colorado) for over 20 years. She had the original idea for the Nisei Appreciation Luncheon which she subsequently organized. She organized the Japanese Community Picnic and the NKC Lunar New Year Annual Banquet.
Mary actively worked on all the above project through to age 92! She was active in the United Methodist Women, Nisei Bowling League and several Birthday Groups,
She is Survived by daughter Julie Cleary (Andy Cleary), grandson Cody Cleary (Aeri Cleary) great granddaughter Ruby Cleary and grandson Conor Cleary (Clara Wille). Her siblings; Dr. Harry Hatasak (Sadako), Lorena Kawamura, Sam (Pat) Hatasaka, Stanley Hatasaka, Sharon Hatasaka, and many nieces and nephews. Grandpets: Wheatley, Rothko, Hibiki, Tyson & Bo. Mary was preceded in death by her husband Massey, brother Ken and sister Fumi.
Mary requested in writing no formal church services but she would like to invite her friends and relatives to a banquet lunch at the Empress Seafood Restaurant. The family will happily comply with her wishes when possible - when Covid19 subsides and will send out an announcement.
We thank you Mary for a truly wonderful life of joy and love with your family and friends and your lifetime of service to your beloved community. We can hear your laughter in heaven from here.
