Bubbles

On Friday, March 26th I flew to Sacramento to attend the memorial service for Sharon’s aunt “Bubbles” (Yoshiko Jane Keikoan) who passed away March 17, 2010, at the age of 82.

Most of us remember Bubbles (pictured above) from her later years as a doting aunt and were not aware of her accomplishments as a basketball star and champion bowler. She and her sister Abu (yes that Abu) played for the Youth Buddhist Association’s (YBA) Sacramento Saints basketball team.

Bubbles is the first girl in the back row, left.

Abu is in the back row, second from the right.

Abu is the second girl from the left in the bottom row

Bubbles is holding the ball in the bottom row

These young ladies were feared in the west and in 1950 they won the championship and then went on to beat the championship team from the State of Washington. Bubbles was known for her aggressive play.

After basketball Bubbles became a very enthusiastic bowler and in 1998 was inducted into the Japanese American National Bowling Association’s Hall of Fame.

Bubbles was the third child of Yoshisuke (Father) and Kane (Mother) Keikoan. She had two brothers (Rye and Shoji) and two sisters (Abu and Dorothy). Bubs is standing on the left in this family photo. Bubbles was predeceased by Dorothy and Rye and is survived by Abu and Shoji.

Bubbles (as did most of the Keikoan family) grew up with Pat Morita who later became a movie star. You will remember him in the Karate Kid movies.

Bubbles was a stunning lady in her youth. For a few more pictures click on this link: Beautiful Bubs

We love you Bubbles!  Hold a spot for us!