Matue Heyamoto

Spokane - On January 27th, 2024, around 12:30 PM, Peggy Heyamoto peacefully left us, with her daughter Sharlene by her side.

Matue Enohara Heyamoto, known as Peggy, was born on March 13, 1931, in Tokyo, Japan. Raised in a close-knit Buddhist family, she celebrated unique Japanese holidays and cherished traditions.

After studying dressmaking, Peggy embraced life's challenges, supporting her family during wartime relocations. In 1948, she married William Merle Desautel, Sr., leading to the birth of their daughter, Sharlene, in Japan. Son, Billy, was born on December 8, 1953, in Battle Creek, Michigan, and David joined the family on October 29, 1956, in France at the Army base Camp Bussac. Peggy's resilience shone through as she navigated life in the U.S., facing the loss of their son, David, to leukemia.

Peggy found new love with George Heyamoto and they were married on July 14, 1971, sharing a bond that endured over time. She continued to embrace her Japanese heritage, enjoying traditional dances, flower arranging, and the richness of Japanese and Korean cultures. She also enjoyed a remarkable 31-year career as top salesperson at the Bon Marche.

Peggy was an active member of the Spokane Buddhist Temple and the Japanese American Citizens League. She supported and participated in cultural events at Mukogawa Fort Wright Institute, and was highly praised for her hospitality and contributions to the Nishinomiya Sister City Program.

When it came to cooking, Peggy was the ultimate Japanese chef. She prepared delicious Japanese meals for her husband, George, daily, and took particular pride in serving her yearly Japanese food feast for dozens of family and friends in honor of the Japanese New Year.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Peggy's legacy is one of resilience, cultural pride, and enduring love. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, remembered for her warmth and the beautiful tapestry of her life.

Peggy was preceded in death by her loving husband of 42 years, George Heyamoto; and sons, Billy "Pine" Desautel and David Desautel. Peggy is survived by her daughter, Sharlene Andrew; grandchildren, Michelle Desautel Andrew (Gerod), Marc Andrew (Randi), Andrea Andrew, Merle Andrew, Tai Teasley (Bill), and Kristina Teasley; 21 great-grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren. Pine's wife, Carla Desautel; and their children, Brea and Drew. Stepson, Dave (Jerrie) Heyamoto; grandson, Jeff Heyamoto; and granddaughter, Lisa (Todd Milbourn) Heyamoto; and great-granddaughters, Eleanor and Vivian Milbourn. Stepson, Doug (Linda) Heyamoto; grandsons, Scott (Erin) and Curtis (May) Heyamoto; step-granddaughter, Cassie (Dan) Frederiksen; and great-granddaughters, Reiko Heyamoto, Danica, and Candice Frederiksen.

A service will be held at Greenwood Memorial Upper Terrace on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at 2:30pm. It will also be live streamed; please contact a family member for streaming information. Donations may be made in Peggy Heyamoto's name to: Spokane-Nishinomiya Sister City Society, c/o Mukogawa U.S. Campus, 4000 W. Randolph Rd., Spokane, Wash. 99224

Our sincere gratitude to Tanya Bunker and the compassionate caregivers at Classy Retreat AFH for their unwavering love and dedicated care, providing comfort and support to Peggy while she lived there.