Yoko Romell-Rippey September 7, 2014

Yoko, age 71 of Cincinnati, peacefully drew her final breaths in the evening hours of August 23, 2014.  Yoko was born in Japan during the tumultuous tail end of World War II on March 25, 1943.  She, her mother and father survived the many hardships that were to follow in their country and drew great strength and courage from this adversity.  Over the years, Yoko grew into a beautiful fearless woman, running officer’s clubs for the servicemen of the Vietnam War.  It was during this time she met her first (and still surviving) husband, Jeffrey Romell, and proceeded to move to the states to settle down and raise their children, Robert and Grace.  From Pensacola to Cincinnati, she continued to thrive, plant her roots and eventually re-marry her surviving husband, Jerry Rippey.  Souls near and far came to love and respect this tenacious, strong willed, intuitive, intelligent, lucky, and abundantly loving wonder of a woman.  Whether she was fiercely sweeping the poker tables of this city or stunningly wrapped in Chanel to reel in a catfish on the river, it did not take long for Yoko’s truly unique and sublime reputation to proceed her.  Those close knew she was incredibly direct, honest, generous, and loyal.  Friends appreciated her presence and grounding advice.  She undeniably held onto these strong values throughout life, but just as beautifully exemplified them throughout her departure.

  

Yoko fought her battles more bravely and gratefully than anyone we’ve come to know.  Always courteous, always drawing a smile, the last to shed a tear, and never with a complaint or imposition. She was truly a living and passing epitome of dignity and grace.  Her memory and spirit will forever impact those who had the privilege of knowing her… And her legacy will continue to impact so many more to follow.

She was the woman that experienced one thousand lives.  And all undoubtedly well lived.

We invite those who are close to our family to join us in a Celebration of Life Gathering ~ September 13 at 6:30 PM,  9630 Waterford Place, Loveland, OH 45140.

Please generously make donations in Yoko’s honor to: