To BIJAC friends,

We are deeply saddened to announce the May 21 passing of Peg Chapman, founding office manager of Sonoji Sakai Intermediate School from 1999-2015. Peg played an enormous part in establishing the warm & welcoming school climate at Sakai. She was proud of our connection to the Bainbridge Island Japanese Community and the Sakai family. Peg was an artist and woodcarving was a special passion. Peg used Peruvian walnut and maple to created this carving of the Sakai family mon, which proudly hangs in Sakai’s office.

Paintings honoring the life of Fumiko Hayashida were donated by nationally recognized artist HIRO to BIJAEMA. They will hang in the interpretive center one day. Until then, they hang in Sakai’s main office. Peg Chapman took it upon herself to connect with HIRO, learn about her and the way HIRO connected with Fumiko’s story. Peg shared that story with Sakai students each year as they toured Sakai art.

Peg was living a happy, active, healthy retirement life. There were no symptoms of aggressive, inoperable brain cancer until 4 weeks before she passed.

All are invited to celebrate Peg’s life at Sakai school gym on Saturday, July 1 from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm. The celebration will begin with informal time to enjoy food & drink, tour Peg’s art throughout Sakai School, view Peg pics & enjoy tunes from her favorite musicals. At approximately 3:30 pm, we will gather in the gym for the more formal program.

While we are still reeling with the shocking, devastating news of Peg’s passing, her wonderful family reminds us that Peg would insist on a joyful celebration of her life. So it shall be.

Article submitted by Jo Vander Stoep who had the great honor of being Sakai’s founding principal and working in perfect partnership with Peg Chapman.