Reiko Ochi Lynch

She was born in Karafuto Japan where she lived a rural life with her parents and five siblings. As a teenager, she and her family evacuated to Hokkaido where they eventually resettled in the port city of Otaru. Later, while working as a translator, she met and then married an American soldier from Boston, Massachusetts (Francis J Lynch). She emigrated from Japan to the United States and lived the life of an Army wife while raising three daughters.

Reiko was a happy, smiling optimist, so encouraging, kind, and generous toward everyone. The home she created was the hub of family gatherings throughout her life. She was a regular volunteer in many capacities over decades-her children’s schools, homeless shelters, church outreach. She was an avid tennis and bridge player and hosted many cookouts and luncheons around these events. When the pandemic hit, Reiko had been living a busy life-still socially active, independent, and driving. Her last few years brought physical limitations, but she was surrounded by her daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, and friends who came to visit. She also took pleasure in hearing about the lives of nephews, nieces, and the many friends accumulated over decades of Army life.

Those of us who knew and love her are left with grieving hearts to be filled over time by her buoyant spirit.