Obituary for Kazuko Ito

Kazuko Ito of Austin, Texas, passed away on January 15, 2022.

Kako was born in Misakubo, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan on November 10, 1951. She moved to Austin in 1987, where she earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin. She was employed in the high tech industry for several years. In 2009 she became the president of the Japan America Society of Greater Austin (JASGA). In this volunteer role, she spearheaded JASGA’s mission and presence almost single-handedly for over a decade. She was responsible for JASGA’s successful language and calligraphy programs, as well as the popular Aki Matsuri Japan fall festival held annually in Austin. She was a dedicated supporter of the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, where she regularly organized and led cleanup days. A hard-working bridge-builder between the people of Japan and Texas, she is remembered fondly by many for her energy, her dedication, and her generous spirit.

Kako is survived by her life companion and former husband, Alan Cook of Austin; a sister, Hiroko Ito; an aunt, Taeko Tatsuo; and numerous relatives in Japan. A memorial service will take place at a date and time to be announced later*. Donations in Kako’s honor may be made to the Japan America Society of Greater Austin.