Kiyoko O. Crocker

Kiyoko O. Crocker, 90, of Ithaca, passed away on March 8, 2020 surrounded by love with family.  Kiyoko was born April 6, 1929 to Shigeru and Ito (Kamisaka) Ota of Otsu, Japan.  She met her husband Verle while he served in the Army during the Korean War and they were married in Japan on May 15, 1953. In 1954 Kiyoko and Verle began their life in the United States on the Crocker family farm in Ithaca, MI.  

In 1986 Kiyoko retired from Wolverine World Wide after 25 years of service.  Kiyoko loved gardening and many times grew her vegetables from seed.  She had an amazing strawberry patch and enjoyed creating beautiful flower beds.  Kiyoko was also a very talented seamstress.  She would create personalized patterns tailored for a perfect fit and could mend anything.  Kiyoko especially loved spending time with her family and enjoyed cooking for big family meals and celebrations.   

Kiyoko is survived by her children Verona (Alden) Howay; Glenda (Ken) Showers; Kelvin (Karen) Crocker; Emily Crocker; grandchildren Jenny (Dan), Jason, Amy (Justin), Marc, Doug, and Xavier (April) and four great-grandchildren, Austin, Josalyn, Raelynn, Skylnn, and a fifth Isla due in May; sister Fusako Yamada and numerous nieces and nephews. Kiyoko was preceded in death by her Parents, 5 Sisters and 1 Brother, her beloved husband of 60 years Verle, and Grandson Tommy.  

Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at Barden Funeral Home in Ithaca.  Interment will follow in Hamilton Township Cemetery. The family will greet friends and celebrate Kiyoko’s beautiful life from 2:00pm-4:00pm and 6:00pm-8:00pm on Tuesday, March 10, 2020 at Barden Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Edgewood Church of God, North Star AFC, or The Care Team Hospice.

Condolences may be left for the family online at www.bardenfuneralhome.com.

Comments

[Ray and Chris Fejedelem]

It was a blessing to be greeted by Kiyoko.At gatherings she would immediately seek you out and make one feel comfortable.When you were in front of her ,she had the gift of making one feel special and wanted.Our thoughts go to her family who treated her with love and respect,Gods love on all,Veronas sister in law and husband

[Lona Bradbury]

My sincere condolences to the Crocker family on the loss of Kiyoko. I have fond memories of visiting the Crocker farm as a kid, and Kiyoko trying to teach me how to eat with chop sticks ( still can't). She was a wonderful lady!
Lona Bradbury

[Dennis & Sherry Milledge]

Thoughts and prayers to the family she was a loving and caring person

[Lori Strouse]

Kiyoko’s family, I am deeply saddened to hear of her passing. She was such a force and loved her family deeply. God bless 💕

[Jennifer Bozung]

I’m so sad to hear about Kiyoko. She was such a beautiful person and a bright light. I know she will be deeply missed. I loved her cooking and seeing her at family functions.God bless to the family. ♥️

[Jeremy Brenner]

Great grandma Crocker; the day I meet you was very eventful, and Tommy was not very fourth coming in bringing me in to your house ,but you greeted me with open arms and made sure I've ate. You always made me sir and eat . Your food and soul will always be safe in my heart. Tommy has his grandma back with love Jeremy!

[Julie Green-Leen]

Verona, Tom & Family,
So very sorry for your loss.Your mother was always such a beautiful person. You are all in my prayers.
Deepest Sympathies,
Julie

[Robin Riedel Rogers]

My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and all feeling the loss of Mrs. Crocker. I remember hearing many good stories from my Dad (Bob) about the Crocker family as the kids rode his school bus. May your many loving memories bring you comfort during this sorrowful time.

[Dave and Karen mills]

Sorry for your loss...

[Sam & Suzie King]

Kelvin, Karen & families,
Sorry for the loss of your Mom.
With warm sympathies to comfort you & your family at this difficult time.

[chuck&marlene wilhelm]

to all of kiyoko's family so sorry for your loss she was a very friendly lady allways. . thinking of all marlene &chuck

[Cyndi Roslund]

To the Crocker family--I was sad to her of Kiyoko's passing. I remember her from working at Wolverine. She was SUCH a kind lady---and made me laugh because she was so upbeat! Praying for peace and healing for you all.

[Jeanne Chaffin]

I am so sorry I didn't learn of the loss of your sweet mom until too late to come to her service. I'm praying for all of you. Sincerely, Jeanne Chaffin

[Sherah MacLaren]

So sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prays.

[Angie & Doug Ballard]

Dear Verona,
I am so very sorry to hear of your mother's passing. She was always so sweet and caring. I'm sorry I'm just now learning this. Please know that I am thinking of you and your family and pray that you find strength and peace.