Fond Farewell Merle Yoshida

It is with a heavy heart that HEA has learned of the passing of Merle M. Nishida Yoshida. Mrs. Yoshida passed away at the age of 67 at Queens Medical Center on October 2, 2022. She was a former teacher at Kalanianaole School in Papaikou where she retired in December 2021. She is survived by her husband, James Yoshida; mother, Toshie Nishida; sisters, Jean (Wayne) Souza and Lois Nishida.

Merle generously volunteered her time and shared her invaluable knowledge while serving on the HEA Educational Programs Committee. She was a key supporter of HEA’s Creative Writing Festival for over 15 years. Every year, she would fly over to Oahu and spend the day to personally help at the event. Her warm smile and heartfelt care for the students were sincerely appreciated. Merle will always be remembered and truly missed.