Yoshio "Dean" Yari
October 20, 1933 - July 19, 2023
Obituary
Yoshio was born on October 20, 1933, in Kyoto, Japan and passed away peacefully with his family by his side on July 19, 2023, at Kline Galland Homes in Seattle, Washington. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Doris Noriko; daughters Julie (Brian) and Sachiko (Travis); grandsons Daisuke, Masaki, Yuuki, and Jordan; and his many nieces and nephews both in the US and Japan. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers and sister in Kyoto, Japan.
He apprenticed as a Japanese chef in Kyoto, and was sent to London, England as a sous chef for the Nippon Club. With very little English, he was able to obtain a British driver’s license and explore Europe on his own. Yoshio was then transferred to the Nippon Club in Manhattan, New York, NY. There, a long-distance introduction to his future wife who lived in Seattle was made.
Yoshio and Doris were married on June 22, 1968. After his two daughters were born in 1969, (New York City) and 1971 (Seattle), the Yari family drove cross-country and permanently relocated to Seattle where Yoshio eventually opened his own restaurant, Togetsu Japanese Restaurant in Pioneer Square. Yoshio was well known for his beautiful kaiseki dinners and delicious bento boxes. He ran that restaurant for 30+ years before retiring in 2006.
Yoshio golfed often, did carpentry work, and enjoyed going to Mariner games with Doris. He also liked to spend time with his grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either Kline Galland Homes, Kawabe Memorial House, or a charity of your choice.
Rest in peace, Uncle Dean. We will miss you. Thank you for all the wonderful memories and delicious food you treated us to over so many years.
Mrs. Yari, Julie & Sachiko,
I read about Mr. Yari’s passing. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I have fond memories of your family & the generosity you showed me as a child. Thank you for opening your home to this former neighbor & fellow Maple Elem classmate & friend.
Sincerely,
Linda Kan