Nanako Oguri

Nanako Oguri, 83, passed away on May 5, 2020 in Flushing, New York. Nana was born on May 1, 1937 to Kanzo and Augusta Oguri. The youngest of seven—sisters Satoko, Chiyoko, Isako, and Teruko; and brothers Toyokichi and Mikihiko—Nana was the last of her siblings to depart this world and is now reunited with them. Growing up in a large and active family in Park Slope Brooklyn, Nana enjoyed horseback riding, going to the beach house in Long Island, trips to Coney Island, and of course, public school in Brooklyn. She attended college at NYU and CCNY, earned her teaching certificate and masters and taught in New York public schools for 35 years as teacher, special education teacher, and counselor. After retiring, she was certified as a therapist and worked with children and young adults for several years. Nana loved her dogs. Two of her basenjis were champions and won best of show at Madison Square Garden. Nana was also active in the Lions Club of Flushing, working as the Treasurer and Secretary and was instrumental in the publication of the newsletter and the implementation of several special events. She was an active member of the Japanese American United Church. She also worked with the Friends of the United Nations and sponsored several local events in New York. During her last years, Nana was a resident of Flushing House. She made many friends among both residents and staff. In particular, Nana is fondly remembered by staff as a caring and lovely woman. Nana was an extremely special lady. Her generosity and caring heart knew no bounds. She was witty, dynamic, and full of inner strength. And yet she was humble, supporting, and compassionate. Nana’s loving inner beauty will be dearly and deeply missed. Nana is survived and lovingly remembered by numerous nephews and nieces in Maryland, Texas, California, Arkansas, Hawaii, and Arizona.