Sumako Masuda Coker's Obituary
Sumako Masuda Coker
April 23, 1937 – June 12, 2025 Brentwood, California
Sumako Masuda Coker passed away peacefully at home on June 12, 2025, at the age of 88. She was born in Kona, Hawaii, on April 23, 1937, and grew up on her family’s coffee farm. She graduated from Konawaena High School and later moved to Honolulu, where she completed business college.
Sumako began her career as a legal secretary at a Honolulu law firm, then worked for the State of Hawaii at the State Capitol. She found her true calling in the judiciary, serving for many years as Court Clerk to the Honorable Edwin Honda of the First Circuit District Court. She was admired for her professionalism, integrity, and quiet grace.
Sumako had a deep love for literature—especially biographies and stories of human resilience—and was a lifelong listener of classical music. She was kind and compassionate to everyone, especially to those who were struggling or overlooked.
She is survived by her brother, Toshiharu Masuda (Hozue); daughter, Louise Coker Sakotani (Brent); grandchildren Sean Sakotani, Travis Sakotani, Alissa Coker, Linsy Coker, and Mia Coker; and great-grandchildren Sophia Ragudo, Ellie Saguibo, and Emilia Saguibo.
She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Robert T. Coker; her parents, Ume and Kazuyuki Masuda; and siblings Yaeko “Rose” Araki, Ayako “Nancy” Higa, Shuichi Masuda, Kazunori Masuda, and Chikao Masuda.
A private family service was held in Honolulu, Hawaii.
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