Lillian Mitsuko Nishi

August 25, 1931 - February 12, 2019

Lillian Mitsuko Nishi of Honolulu, Hawaii passed away on February 12, 2019, surrounded by her family. She was 87 years old. Lillian was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on August 25, 1931 to Mitsuo and Margaret Kimura. She graduated from Farrington High School in 1949 and earned a degree in nursing from St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing in 1952. She earned a B.Sc. in nursing education from St. Louis University in 1953. That year, she married James Akio Nishi, who was then a second-year medical student at Washington University. Lillian and James returned to Honolulu in 1963 after James completed his surgical residency. Lillian was kind and generous, and was devoted to her family and friends. She excelled at her every endeavor, and was known for the fabulous meals, garments and haku lei she created and shared with family and friends. She had a passion for classical music that continues to inspire her family. Lillian was also, an advocate for physicians' rights, and a dedicated volunteer for Punahou School and numerous political campaigns. She served as president of the Hawaii Medical Association Auxiliary, was awarded the first Hawaii Medical Political Action Committee award for outstanding political action by a member, and received Punahou School's Old School Award for outstanding service to the school. Lillian is survived by her husband of 65 years, James A. Nishi; daughters Linda Nishi-Strattner (Mark) and Sharon Nishi (John Yamano); sons Steven Nishi (Pamela Tauchi-Nishi) and Carl Nishi (Kristine); sister Mildred Oshiro; grandchildren Ian Nishi. Leigh Nishi-Strattner, Ryan Nishi, Erin Nishi, Evan Nishi, and Warren Nishi; and Matt Higa. She was pre-deceased by sister Ellen Masaki and brother Ernest Kimura. A Celebration of Life honoring Lillian will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2019 at Punahou School, Thurston Memorial Chapel. Visitation will begin at 2:30 p.m., and will be followed by a service at 3:30 p.m.