In Memory of Vince Young

Vince Young

Spouse: Su Young
Children: David, Alexander, Theresa, Ethan, Yitchak
DOB: March 5, 1954
Blessing: 10/14/1982
Passing: June 22, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: July 2, 2024 at 6:00 PM, Scarlet City Church,
114 Morse Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43214
Broadcast Link: 
www.youtube.com/@ScarletCityChurchColumbus
Cards, Flowers, and Donations can be sent to:  Su Young, 114 Morse Road, Columbus, Ohio 43214

We celebrate the life of Vincent Leon Young, a remarkable man whose presence enriched the lives of those around him. Born in 1954 in Columbus, Ohio, Vincent was the second son and fifth child of Andrew and Elizabeth Moon Young. His journey through life was marked by unwavering dedication to God, family, and a better world.

Vincent’s love for learning was evident from a young age. He was an avid reader, often found with a book in hand, particularly on topics of history and philosophy. This passion for knowledge and duty shaped his character and fueled his commitment to education and civil rights. While in Franklin Heights High School, he was offered a scholarship to the Naval Academy, but he chose a different path, one that led him to Purdue University and the Black Panther Party. Vincent’s activism in the civil rights movement was deeply rooted in his desire to make the world a more just and equitable place. Throughout his life, he would speak out when he witnessed injustice, and could not abide when people were taken advantage of. He would later graduate with his bachelor’s from New Mexico State University and continued learning. 

Vincent’s spiritual journey was equally profound. Raised in a Pentecostal church, he developed a deep love for God and the church community. In his younger years, he was known to spend days at church saying how he loved being in God’s house. His quest for spiritual truth led him to study Asian philosophy and martial arts, where he excelled in Taekwondo and Kyukushin karate. His dedication to martial arts was more than physical; it was a way to connect with his inner self and develop his character.

One of the defining moments of Vincent’s life was his joining the Unification Church in 1974. He was blessed in holy matrimony through his wife, Su during an international matching ceremony in Korea in 1982 in honor of world peace. Together, they committed to building a wholesome family for the sake of building a better world. Their union was blessed with five children, and Vincent took great pride and joy in being a father. He was deeply committed to his children’s spiritual and educational growth, personally homeschooling his children and inviting other teachers, extra-curricular instructors, and community experiences to ensure that they became well-rounded, self-made individuals.

Vincent’s commitment to community service was exemplified through his work with the Ohio Chapter of the Washington AIDS International Teens. As the director, he used the performing arts to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and promote abstinence, impacting many lives and organizations across Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia. His passionate support of this group and cause was fueled by his drive to foster the development and well-being of local youth and the wider community. 

Throughout his life, Vincent faced many challenges, but his faith and resilience were unwavering. He believed in the power of prayer and often sought God’s guidance in his endeavors. His time on the mobile fundraising team, called MFT,  took him to the most racially challenging places in Texas, where he felt the protective hand of God in the face of life-threatening danger and racism.

Vincent’s love for martial arts and Chinese philosophy extended to his family. He ensured that all his children learned martial arts, instilling discipline, respect, and the importance of self-defense and hard work. His hands-on approach to parenting was evident in the numerous activities he involved his children in, from Boy Scouts to community service projects. Some of his children’s favorite memories are camping with their dad. 

In the early 2000s, Vincent’s role as a community leader took on a new dimension with his involvement in international peace marches in Israel and religious cultural exchange pilgrimages in Korea. These experiences deepened his understanding of global issues and reinforced his commitment to fostering peace and understanding among different cultures and faiths.

Vincent’s life was not without its trials. Supporting Washington AIDS International Teens was such a joyful endeavor, and the dissolution of the team in Ohio was a significant blow to him, leading to a period of depression. However, his spirit remained unbroken. He founded a new initiative, Choice, to continue his community service and youth engagement mission. Despite the challenges, Vincent’s legacy of service, love, and dedication to his family and community activism remains a testament to his character. His sense of how deeply loved he was as God’s child, compelled him to share that feeling of deep love, care, and belonging to others. This truth was at the heart of Vince’s life and choices, and he could not but extend that sense of being included in one beloved family to all, regardless of where he met them or what they looked like.

Vincent Leon Young was a man of many talents and passions. His love for God, commitment to honor, and dedication to his family and community have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. As we remember and honor his life, let us carry forward his legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith.

Rest in joy, Vincent. Your journey on this earth has ended, but your spirit lives on in the hearts of those you touched and in the world beyond. Thank you for the love, wisdom, and inspiration you have given us.

In Memory of Henry Christopher

Henry Christopher

Spouse: Katsuko Okada Christopher 
Children: Enryka
Birth Date: January 20, 1947
Blessing Date: January 12, 1989
CheonBo Induction: October 20, 2020
Date of Passing: June 21, 2024
Seonghwa: June 26, 2024

Henry Christopher was born on January 20, 1947, in Bayshore, New York. His parents, Milton and Elvira Christopher, raised him along with his siblings, William and David. He graduated from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh.

A true idealist, Henry dedicated his life to the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and the realization of an ideal world. He and Katsuko Okada received the Holy Marriage Blessing on January 12, 1989 as part of the 1,275 blessing held in Korea.

Henry was introduced to the Unification Movement in 1973 by Tirzi Shilgi Martin who met him at the campus of Boston University. Tirzi recalled encountering him during an open market day where Henry was selling hippie accessories. Like many of his peers during that era, Henry was searching for meaning and purpose in his life. He attended a Divine Principle workshop and after several spiritual experiences made the decision the following year, 1974, to join the Unification Movement. “God poured pure love down my entire body from the top of my head right to the bottom of my toes. It literally washed away my sin, fears, and sadness—everything. I took this extraordinary experience as a sign from God that I was in the right place doing the right thing for Him and myself,” he said.

In November 1975, Henry auditioned for and joined the New Hope Singers International. He was a member of the tenor section and performed in a barbershop quartet. Henry was involved in the grassroots mobilization campaign and the on-stage choral performance for the historic bicentennial events at both Yankee Stadium (6/1/76) and the Washington Monument (9/18/76). Part of the choir’s activities included selling subscriptions to The News World in New York, which was founded in December 1976. Henry consistently came back at the end of the day with a story that reassured everyone that God was working.

In 1978, after being accepted into the Master of Religious Education (M.R.E.) program, the entire UTS student body, along with Henry, traveled to London for a summer of Home Church activities personally directed by Father Moon. At the seminary, one day he was painting a classroom wall when Father Moon suddenly appeared and suggested what colors were better for studying. He also went fishing with the Founders in the nearby Hudson River. He graduated in the class of 1980.

On January 1, 1982, Henry was chosen as a founding member of The Washington Times. He worked as a Metro reporter and then as an information graphics artist for a total of about 20 years. Fulfilling his desire to teach the Divine Principle to university students living under communist rule, Henry volunteered to spend the spring of 1992 in Simferopol, the capital of Crimea.

From 1991 to 1996, he and Katsuko resided and took care of Jefferson House in McLean, VA, where Father and Mother Moon stayed when in the Greater Washington, D.C., area. Henry and Katsuko welcomed their daughter, Enryka, into the world in 1993. True Parents and many True Children, especially Hoon Sook Nim, stayed at the house.

From 2002 to 2004, the family moved to Korea where they are fondly remembered for taking care of the young Western students in Korea’s GOP program. The young people felt cared for and the Korean Administration and parents had people whom they could trust in the Christophers.

Returning to UTS in 2005, Henry served in various capacities including as Community Relations Director which resulted in inviting the local community to walk on “Father’s Trail.” In 2006, the hiking path later officially became part of the New York State Greenway Trail System. He took leadership in many community programs, including holiday food drives, iceboat activities on the Lagoon, opening the labyrinth loop to the public, and caring for the historic Massena house.

Henry also served as Director for Recruitment and Admissions, and most recently as Financial Aid Director. His tenure as Financial Aid Director was particularly notable during a challenging period when UTS/HJI faced issues with financial aid compliance. Henry’s expertise and diligence restored the school’s standing with the U.S. Department of Education, demonstrating his invaluable contribution to the institution.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Henry played a crucial role in securing significant funding for UTS/HJI, navigating complex paperwork and liaising with government authorities, resulting in over $700,000 in support.

The Christophers were recognized as a CheonBo couple in 2020, a significant recognition in the Unification faith for their dedication as Heavenly Tribal Messiahs.

In 2024, Henry continued to make significant contributions, notably with the Higher Purpose Forum where he organized a compelling series on the “Unity of Science, Spirituality, and Religion.” His March 12 presentation on human origins, advocating for a theory of “theistic evolution,” exemplified his deep integration of faith and intellectual inquiry.

Henry was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2020. One kidney was removed at that time, then, in the spring of this year, the other one became cancerous. In late June, he was admitted to Tidal Health Peninsula Regional Hospital in Salisbury, MD, due to complications from pneumonia and a bacterial infection. It was there, surrounded by his loving wife, Katsuko, and daughter Enryka, that Henry passed away at 2:50 pm on June 21, 2024.

The family expresses profound gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support they received during Henry’s illness. Known for his humble yet determined and bold spirit, Henry’s contributions to advancing Heavenly Parent’s work in America were cherished by all who knew him.

Cards of support can be mailed to:
Katsuko Christopher
3193 Meridian Dr, Greenbackville, VA 23356

The Seonghwa will be held at 4:00 PM EDT on Wednesday, June 26th, 2024

Location The Arbor Ballroom of the Washington Times Building

It will also be live-streamed on Zoom at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/618147675
Use Passcode: 2027

In Memory of Sun Hyang Willett

Sun Hyang Willett

Spouse: Joe Willett
Children: Sunder Willett
Birthdate: July 31, 1952
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: May 07, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: May 11, 2024

Sun Hyang Willett (family name Hwang) was born on July 31st, 1953, 4 days after the Korean War ended, as the youngest child in her family. One day when she was 15 years old, she was hiking up a mountain with some friends and felt the need to use the bathroom, but for some reason, instead of just going off the trail like she always did she felt like she wanted to use an inside bathroom so she pushed her friends to hike back down the mountain and look for a house. The first house she came to, she knocked on the door to ask to use the bathroom. It was at this house that she had her first encounter with the Unification Church. After this she continued to come back to learn about the teachings of Rev. Sun Myung Moon and converted to Unificationism.

When she was older, she enlisted in the South Korean army to support her family, ultimately becoming a sergeant. In 1979, she was matched and engaged to Joe Willett, a young security guard at East Garden in NY. Joe later said he was a bit nervous upon hearing that his fiancé was a both sergeant and a marksman in the South Korean army. She moved to America in 1980 to start missionary work sharing her faith, and would be Blessed in marriage to Joe with 2075 couples at Madison Square Garden on July 1, 1982. They stayed in New York for many years before moving to Georgetown, Kentucky, near Joe’s hometown of Lexington. Soon after she was extremely grateful to adopt her son, Sunder, in 1993.

After moving to Georgetown, she tried to get a job at the local Toyota plant but was unable to. Following the example of many of her friends she determined to start her own business of selling flowers and continued doing so for 25 years. She felt that speaking English as a second language was actually an advantage in making sales because it helped her get past people's guard and also made it harder for her to take no for an answer.

While maintaining her business, she always continued to share about her faith to friends, neighbors and customers. She would later say that her business was an extension of her ministry and that she tried to teach her customers how to live good lives. She often shared with her customers that being honest in business was more important than making quick money and that God rewards honest work. Ultimately, the value of marriage was most important to her and she always shared about it. She always told her customers to listen to and respect their partners and that they should always try to work things out instead of separating.

Later in her life she felt called to share marriage rededication ceremonies with others. She visited numerous churches and met with clergy from multiple denominations and faiths to share with them the value of the marriage blessing. In 2017, she and her husband Joe were one of the first Unificationist couples in America to bless 430 couples in rededication ceremonies. After hearing about the stress and job pressure first responders often face and the correspondingly high divorce rate they experience, she and Joe embarked on a years long project to visit all 120 counties across the state of Kentucky and offered marriage rededication ceremonies to hundreds of police officers, firefighters and other first-responders across Kentucky.

She was driven by a desire to share God's love with others and felt that this was her way to make a contribution for God to the world. In her private life, she devoted herself to studying God's word and praying for her family, friends, neighbors, and everyone she met in her ministry. Sometimes her prayers would go long into the night to include everyone on her list. Her other passions included gardening and cooking, especially for others. She was always trying to serve others and was known for bringing gifts or food when she visited others.

In 2023, she was overjoyed by the birth of her first grandchild Eli and was able to hold him a few weeks after his birth. She was always so excited to hear updates about how he was doing and looked forward to seeing him grow up.

Sun Hyang Willett experienced a sudden heart attack on May 6th and ascended to spirit world early in the morning on May 7th, 2024. Shortly after her ascension, her daughter-in-law woke up from a dream in which she was told that Sun is just fine now and not to worry about her. While her family is shocked by her sudden ascension, they also know that she is probably looking forward to continuing her ministry and sharing about God's love in the spirit world.

Sun is survived by her husband, Joe; son, Sunder; and grandson, Eli.

The Midwest Subregion will be hosting her Seonghwa Ceremony this Saturday, May 11, at 3 p.m. EST (2pm viewing). See the address below.
If you are unable to attend in person, you can join us via Zoom 
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82336631628Meeting ID: 823 3663 1628

Those who wish to help Sun’s family with the cost of funeral expenses may go to the following fundraiser.
https://gofund.me/75b54d1e

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, May 11th, 2024 at 3:00 PM EDT (2 p.m. viewing)
Location: Johnson's Funeral Home 641 S Broadway Georgetown KY, 40324

In Memory of Caleb George Neale Thompson

Caleb George Neale Thompson

Spouse: Renee Elaine Pearson
Children: Carena Nicole
Birthdate: August 12, 1949
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: April 20, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: May 2, 2024

Caleb was born August 12, 1949, and Christened George Neale. He departed this physical plane on April 20, 2024, after a six-month battle with ill health.

Caleb was born in Milwaukee to Kenworthy James Thompson Jr. and Catherine Jane Ewell Thompson. KJ Sr was a Rhodes Cambridge Scholar in Chemistry. In Ohio, he worked for a company that created cording, nylon, etc. underneath the tire tread, reinforcing the tire so that it did not burn out. KJ Jr graduated from Purdue University and had the highest GPA for many years. He worked for Rex Chain Belt as a works manager.

The Thompson family moved to Fullerton, CA before nursery school through first grade where Caleb learned to swim in the pool in his subdivision and the family would go to Huntington Beach. A memorable incident that led to Caleb becoming a nursery school dropout was when Caleb was playing in the sand box and another child hit Caleb over the head with his shovel. Caleb's Mom was then called in and they spoke with her about Caleb's aggressive behavior. Caleb's mom said, “Excuse me, I understand the other child hit Caleb first. So Neale hit him back. What is wrong with that?” After this incident, she told Caleb, “OK, get your stuff, we are out of here!”

Henceforth, the family moved back to Milwaukee Wisconsin. However, Caleb grew up in the city of Wauwatosa and attended the Wilson Elementary School through sixth grade, and continued to Hawthorne Junior High, graduating from Wauwatosa East High School. Caleb attended Cornell University, graduating with a bachelor's degree. Alan Seher who was a high school and college colleague of Caleb at Cornell, took a bicycle trip through New England with Caleb, and then, not on bikes, the two made their way to California. At the UC Berkeley campus, Caleb met someone in our church who invited him to dinner. Alan wanted to tag along and the two joined the Creative Community Project. At one point Caleb was stabbed in a strange altercation somewhere in Berkeley. He had to go to the hospital and his mother came out to be with him. Recovering from this life-threatening experience, Caleb became a full-time member of Unification Church. In addition to being engaged with construction projects on Camp A, and Camp K, Caleb renovated a bus for nonstop travel from California to bring members to the Yankee Stadium Rally in 1976. Caleb was a great storyteller and everyone who listened to hime would be spellbound when he told them about his daring deeds.

At Madison Square Garden, Caleb and Renee were Blessed in Holy Matrimony in 1982. Renee attended seminary from 1980 -1983 and Caleb from 1983 – 1986. Caleb wrote his thesis on Christian Ministers in Political Office and worked with CAUSA – USA with Mark Clevenger. While Renee worked with CAUSA – International. In 1989, Carena was born and in 1991 the Thompson Family moved to Wisconsin to be closer to Caleb's family. In 1990 Caleb and Renee were both in Moscow at the time of True Parents meeting with President Mikhail Gorbachev. It was while working with Mark Clevenger that Caleb developed a love for Country music. In 2022 he took Renee to a George Strait concert, and Saturday night was heralded as the night for Country, with Austin City Limits.

In Wisconsin, Caleb took a position as Director of the Weatherization Program for Community Action. There, began a never-ending series of programs, innovations, and projects as Caleb worked on groundbreaking efforts to develop solar power for homes to save energy through insulation and better design of homes. Caleb started solar power work in 2001 and eventually became a solar consultant. By 2007, Caleb was proud to be the first home on Forest Park Blvd to have solar panels on the south-facing roof. He installed three different solar systems, two on the roof of his house and one on the carriage barn. During this time, Caleb worked as a housing specialist in the Rock County Planning and Development Agency.

In an interview by Anna Marie Leif, a journalist with the Janesville Gazette, on February 4, 2007, Caleb is quoted as saying, “Solar energy can happen in your house in this city. It is just amazing to me that it works, even in winter. The concept is beautifully simple. Everyone knows the difference between standing in the sun and the shade!”

Caleb installed a domestic hot water heating system in 2001. He installed a photovoltaic system in 2003 to produce about a third of the household's electricity. He also installed a solar thermal system which added supplemental heat to the family's forced air furnace. Caleb and his family also used energy-efficient appliances, including their super-insulated moisture-free basement. In addition, Caleb drove one of the first hybrid gas-electric cars in southern Wisconsin. Caleb also drove a diesel Volkswagen which ran on recycled vegetable oil. In the summer, during the Midwest Renewable Energy Fair, Caleb presented information on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living.

Caleb founded his own business, Janesville Home and Solar, LLC. In 2007 Caleb's home was open for a state tour of solar buildings and was put on the National Tour list of solar homes. In recognition of his organization's innovation and leadership in sustainability, Caleb received the Sustainable Energy Award and the prestigious Pearl Certification, which was awarded on July 23, 2023. This platinum award is the highest award for a high-performance energy-efficient home. Further innovations of Caleb’s include designing and building a 1,000-gallon rainwater tank and successfully designing a moisture-free basement.

In addition to the inordinately groundbreaking efforts to promote sustainability and harvest energy from the sun, Caleb was also engaged in the internal work of healing the human heart. Caleb studied and facilitated inner nature integration as taught and developed by Dr. Solihin Thom since 1991. Most recently Caleb traveled to Turkey with Renee to attend a 21-day workshop for Inner Dialogue, also taught by Solihin Thom.

Caleb lived a life full of activity, innovation, and creativity. Beyond the shadow of a doubt, his efforts in energy efficiency, weatherization, sustainability, and solar harvest have him at the forefront of the future that will harvest the vast resources of the universe. And yet, it is his love for his chickens, who lived in a positive chicken palace, designed and built by Caleb, his dogs, as well as his many friends and colleagues, and mostly for his beloved wife, Renee, and beloved daughter Carena that make Caleb a man of all seasons, all climates and all times.

Caleb is survived by his wife, Renee, his daughter, Carena (Rob), his sister, Leslie Ann (John), and nephew, Prescott (Molly) and grand nephew, Linus. Caleb is predeceased by his parents, and his nephew, Taylor.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Thursday, May 2nd, 2024 at 10:00 AM CST
Location: Apfel Wolfe Funeral Home, 21 S Austin Rd Janesville, WI 53547

In Memory of Mary Battilocchi

Mary Battilocchi

Spouse: Antonio Battilocchi
Children: Francesa, Natasha,
Vitale
Birthdate: March 18, 1953
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: April 13, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: April 20, 2024

Mary Battilocchi was born Mary Gambal on March 18, 1953 in Passaic New Jersey, the daughter of Aleksandra Planka and Michael Gambal who both emigrated from Poland. She passed away on April 13, 2024 at Yale New Haven hospital surrounded by family and her congregation.
In her youth Mary was an avid book reader and she spent many hours reading any book she took an interest in. She also loved to bake with her mother and she once made a 10 pound fruit cake at the age of 9 just for fun. Also, she was a clarinet player in her youth and part of her school’s marching band.
Mary spent many years working for her family and her church which she valued dearly. She was a devoted member of the Unification church for 50 years having joined in 1974 and witnessed to many. She served on the Mobile Fundraising Team (MFT) in Chicago for 5 years while also spending some of that time in New York.
With a lifelong willingness to help others who were ailing, she went on to pursue alternative medicine. She had always known she wanted to be a professional from a young age. She would become the first in her family to receive a college education and thought that becoming a doctor would be the field where she could most benefit the lives of people in the world around her.
Upon receiving her masters in Biology from Hunter College of New York, she went on to further her studies in homeopathy (holistic medicine) and received her Naturopathic Doctorate from Bastyr University (1989-1993) in Kenmore , Washington. During this time, she was blessed to her loving husband Antonio of 35 years and soon settles down on the East coast where she decided was a good place for her to raise her family and start her naturopathic practice; first at her residence in Stratford CT, the place where she called home for 25 years. Then later she moved her practice to Milford CT in 2002 where she spent the remainder of her career happily helping the many people seeking guidance on their personal health journey.
Many times, she would hear patients say they didn’t know what to do and were all out of options. Mary would step in and spend a great deal of time finely tuning the exact remedy for the individual she was treating. Her motto was “Treat the cause, not just the disease.”
In her free time, she loved to be outside sitting in the sun, reading a book or spending time near the water. However, she would still also make time to volunteer for the American Clergy Leadership Conference (ACLC) with her husband Antonio; organizing and helping prepare prayer breakfasts for clergy. On days when she wasn’t outside, she would watch movies and revisit Star Trek, her favorite childhood TV show; she knew all the episodes by heart. Given the dedication to her field and her passion for the lives around her, she lived by the words of Leonard Nimoy to “Live long and prosper.”
She is survived by her husband Antonio Battilocchi and her children Francesca , Vitale and Natasha.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 10:00 AM EST
Location: Lester Gee Funeral Home, 1390 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06605

In Memory of Karl Zambon

Karl Ludwig Zambon

Spouse: Katharina Thiessen
Children: Michelle, Michael, Abigail, Glorianna
Birthdate: January 31, 1940
Blessing: July 1st, 1982
Ascension: March 21, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: March 30, 2024

Karl Ludwig Zambon was born in Kiel, Germany in 1940, to Tamara & Alfred Zambon. Karl had one sister, Gitta. Being born during a time of war in a seaport town, his formative years were surrounded with hardship and the family showed strength as well as levity amongst adversity. As a young man Karl was known to love an eclectic array of music. He played piano by ear, figuring out how to play his favorite tunes, and music has always been a source of joy for Karl.

He left home at a young age to work in different places, traveling to many countries. Being the spiritual seeker, Karl saved all his money to buy a motorcycle, complete with a sidecar. That motorcycle took him on the journey of a lifetime from Germany, through the Middle East, India, island hopping through Indonesia, all the way to Australia. He was in search of answers that took years of testing which religion or spiritual practice could fulfill God’s plan for him and the world as a whole. Ultimately, he found what he was looking for once he arrived back home in Germany. After a lot of prayer and fasting to confirm if this was the way, Karl joined the Unification Church in 1978.

In 1979, Karl was matched by Rev. Moon to Katharina Thiessen and was Blessed in marriage on July 1st, 1982. They moved to Alabama and lived there for 14 years, creating a beautiful family with four children: Michelle, Michael, Abigail, and Glorianna.

Karl’s life has always been tied to his love for the ocean. From the seaside of his hometown in Kiel, Germany, to where he raised his family on the gulf coast in Bayou la Batre, Alabama and later Bridgeport, CT, Karl has always found peace by the water. Karl insisted on being included in the church seafood business in Alabama, starting on a shrimping boat and later as a salesman for rock shrimp to retailers across the US, cementing his love for seafood.

In 1997 he moved with his family to Paraguay to join Katharina in establishing a latin branch of the newspaper The Washington Times. With only a basic grasp of Spanish from his time in Spain, he ventured into the unknown, knowing that God had called them to this land for a purpose. During this time, he discovered his passion for building a point of connection to the Mennonite community, of which his wife, Katharina, is originally from. He felt compelled to create a yearly celebration commemorating the arrival of the Mennonites in Paraguay. Their port of entry is located on the land that had been purchased by the church. These efforts helped to build a bridge between the Mennonite community and the Unification church.

As the time came to leave Paraguay, each child made their way back to the US, one by one, followed by Karl as Katharina finished her role in Paraguay. This period showcased Karl's resilience as he started anew in New Jersey, working small jobs to make ends meet.

In 2004, Katharina finally joined Karl in Bridgeport, CT where they established their roots until today. Karl served as a dorm parent for BIA and building manager for the Seaside building, where he worked tirelessly and with unwavering loyalty until his retirement at the age of 77.

During this time, his children all got married and had children of their own. Karl was a loving and playful grandfather to his six grandchildren. (With one more on the way!)

Karl was a man with spiritual fortitude, living his life by spiritual inspiration and a desire to serve a higher purpose. He was incredibly bold and steadfast, and he lived his life by heaven’s principles until the very end. He had a creative mind, and if you were lucky, you could catch the twinkle in his eye with a cheeky grin. He was surrounded by family during the last phase of his life, and they were by his side during his last breaths.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, March 30, 2024 at 10:00 AM EST (Viewing begins at 9:00 AM)
Location: Saugutuck Rowing Club, Regatta Room (521 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880)

Luncheon & Testimonies at 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM

To join the ceremony via livestream: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88302553057

We ask you to please RSVP, especially if you're traveling from out of state so we can accommodate everyone at the venue. Due to limited seating we kindly ask that you make other arrangements for your children. If you need to be bring your child, we ask that they sit on their parents lap.

Flowers can be sent to the venue (521 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880) with delivery by 9 AM.

Dress code: Dark suits for men, white or light colored semi-formal attire for women.

In Memory of Angela Terrell

Angela Terrell 

Spouse: Nathan Terrell
Children: Onrai, Richmon
Birthdate: November 4, 1954
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: March 17, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: March 23, 2024

Angela Terrell was born on November 4, 1954, to her parents David and Ima Rivera in Bridgetown, Barbados. She is the eldest of five siblings: Betty, Cheryl, David, and Helen. She attended St. Paul's Primary School and later enrolled in Springer Girls' Memorial Secondary School.

At the age of 18, she was chosen to be an exchange student through an American Field Scholarship, spending one year with an American family. She later worked at the American Embassy in Barbados. Angela joined the church in 1975.

In 1981, she moved to America, and in July of 1982, she was blessed with Nathan Terrell, whom she moved with to New York. She had two sons, Onrai and Richmon, whom she dearly loved and did her best for. Angela moved from New York to New Jersey, then to Gary, Indiana, and finally settled in Minnesota. She enjoyed music and poetry, and she used to play hockey as a teenager.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 4:00 PM CDT
Location: Minnesota Family Church (3836 Stinson Blvd NE, Columbia Heights, MN 55421)

Visitation will be on Friday March 22 from 1 PM - 2 PM at Crescent Tide Cremation Services
(774 Transfer Road, St. Paul, MN 55114)

To join the ceremony via livestream: https://zoom.us/j/508018905?pwd=TzNkUCtEOFdxZEVrK2oyditpZ1Rydz09
Meeting ID: 508 018 905
Passcode: 2020

In Memory of Shahrokh Namiranian

Shahrokh Namiranian

Spouse: Manijeh Zahedi
Children: Siavash, Babak
Birthdate: February 24, 1959
Ascension: March 17, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: March 23, 2024

Shahrokh Namiranian was born into a Zoroastrian family in Tehran, Iran on February 24, 1959 and grew up with three brothers and many cousins.

His cousin, Iraj, told him of his English teacher who talked about a new idea about God and life that was interesting. Shahrokh was eager to meet Susan Fefferman but had to wait until the weekend. His first encounter in June of 1976 changed his life.

The ideas of the purpose of life, purpose of creation, and the four-position foundation presented by The Exposition of the Divine Principle were completely new for Shahrokh. He had never heard anything like it. He describes his experience in his own words:

“Oh God, this truth was what I needed in all of my life. Now the way is bright and the way is [lit] up by such truth. Wow, my heart was hurt and broken. To hear this truth and know that this was for my salvation, and for all people, it was the way to open God’s work on the world level.

“We can finally have True Parents in this world. That truth completely changed my life and my belief. I felt I could have new life. I could feel I was born again, finally new hope, a new way of thinking, and a new life. How wonderful and precious is this time for me and my future. A new vision had been given to me.”

Shahrokh joined the Unification movement and became a beloved brother to all. He had a kind and tender heart and grew in his relationship to God and the brothers and sisters. He faithfully attended many workshops and eventually learned to teach the Divine Principle.

The Islamic revolution that ousted the Shah (King) forced Susan to leave in January 1979. After Susan left, Shahrokh was jailed and tortured terribly for his new faith during the revolution. Other members were jailed too for a time. They lost all their possessions and the members were persecuted and watched continuously as the revolution unfolded. We were underground before, but now the movement was in danger for their lives.

He would have died in prison if an elderly man hadn’t fed him, cleaned him after the toilet, and nursed him after being tortured. His hands were too swollen to use to eat or hold anything. He had been tortured to drag out answers that he didn’t have and many other horrors were heaped upon this kind soul. Somehow, he never gave up because he kept thinking of the torture that Father Moon had to endure in communist prisons that nearly killed him. These memories comforted him and allowed him to continue. He wept many tears and suffered terrible indignities with no end in sight. He was eventually let go, broken and discarded.

In order to protect Shahrokh after he came out of prison, Manijeh Zahedi, a Muslim woman and the youngest child in the Zahedi clan, married him. He had to claim he was Muslim to marry her. They were blessed as a married couple afterwards. They eventually left everything behind and came to the US.

They have two sons, Siavash, 32, and Babak, 26. Siavash has a 10 month old daughter, Niloofar, who Shahrokh got to meet before he became ill. He lived in upstate New York near Essi, Maliheh, and Khosrow Zahedi and their families.

He had a stroke recently, followed by an operation that put him in a coma. He willed to give his organs to those who needed them and asked that his ashes be spread in nature. Shahrokh passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2024.

“He is my hero and the most kind-hearted Iranian brother who suffered much for Iran.” - Susan Fefferman

Shahrokh with his two sons, Siavash and Babak

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 4:40 PM EDT
Location: To join the ceremony via livestream click this link.

In Memory of Michael McShane

Michael McShane

Spouse: Toshie McShane
Birthdate: September 19, 1957
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: February 2, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: March 9, 2024

Michael “Mike” McShane was born on September 19, 1957 as the oldest son of his father, a Canadian WW2 veteran, and his mother from Michigan. He grew up in the suburbs south of Chicago. He had three younger brothers and one sister.

Early in life, Mike became a member of the Lutheran Church, and he loved going to the church in his neighborhood and serving as an altar boy. Because of his family situation, he often spent his time with his grandparents in their home in northern Michigan. There, Mike had deep experiences connecting to God’s heart and unconditional love through the beautiful nature in the woods. He sometimes talked of his childhood experiences saying that, “Without God, beauty does not exist in this world.”

During high school, his skill was recognized by his art teacher, and he produced many murals, paintings, and drawings. He graduated high school right after the Vietnam War ended and started to travel by hitchhiking from Chicago to California to search for his new life.

He met some Unification Church members in California and joined in 1977. He was deeply moved to hear lectures from Rev. Kevin McCarthy during a 40-day workshop and continued to study the Divine Principle.

Mike served as staff for NY CARP for many art-related projects dealing with design, photography, filmmaking, including projects taking him to Guatemala, Russia, Ukraine. After missionary work in Korea in 1989, he returned to Chicago to support “hometown providence.” He then worked with the movement in Chicago. From 1992 to 2007, Mike supported various speaking tours for Rev. Moon and Dr. Moon.

After attending a workshop for Blessed Couples in Korea in 2001, Mike started to work on a special project about Korea. After 9.11, his goal of filmmaking changed to focus on “The Providence of Korea.” He worked to support True Parents’ Coronation Ceremony in Korea in 2003. Mike also volunteered as a caretaking for a church camp in the Chicago region from 2002 to 2011.

Mike received a B.A. degree in filmmaking at Columbia College in Chicago. During this time, he studied the movie Inchon produced by HSA-UWC, and kept pioneering the new way of introducing True Parents and the Divine Principle to the public. One of his projects was shown at the local theater in Chicago.

He worked as a teacher and served as a volunteer for 20 years in central Illinois. Mike was an independent artist who had a unique artistic eye and mind for creativity. He loved passionately talking to people about beauty and God’s heart and has been always studying and documenting True Parents and God’s words to inspire and create his art.

“His youngest brother, Jeremy was gone with light, and a big brother, Mike was gone with wind around the great lakes, Michigan.”

Mike is survived by his wife, Toshie McShane; mother, Donna McShane (90); two brothers, Kevin McShane and David McShane; sister, Carla Orlandi; niece, Marisa Orlandi; and nephews, Austin McShane and Matthew Rittono.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 1:00 PM CDT
Location: Old Courthouse Museum Chapel, upstairs (103 W. Cherry Street Watseka, IL 60970)

GoFundMe to support the family: https://gofund.me/49fb3ec5

For more information contact Toshie McShane: 779-338-6547
email: mcshatoshi@hotmail.com

In Memory of Kazue Ueda

Kazue Ueda

Spouse: Takeshi Ueda
Children: Miho, Yoshiki, Yukiyo, Marie
Birthdate: November 16, 1954
Blessing: January 12, 1989
Ascension: February 24, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: March 9, 2024

Kazue Ueda was born on November 16, 1954 in the city of Tsuyama, Okayama prefecture, Japan, to Noriyoshi and Tsuneko Endo, the second of three children.

She attended Nihon Joshi Daigaku, Women’s University of Japan, where she studied Sociology. It was here that her early life in the Unification Church began when she was witnessed to and joined CARP. After university, she made her way to the United States as a young missionary to continue carrying out God's work, witnessing in states across the country including Wisconsin, Illinois, and New York.

In 1989, she was Blessed to Takeshi Ueda in the 1,275 Couples Blessing in Korea. The couple had four children—Miho, Yoshiki, Yukiyo, and Marie. In 2007, Kazue moved to Los Angeles with her husband and children after 18 years of living in the Bay Area of northern California. She was welcomed by the SoCal church community and has called the Los Angeles Family Church her home for the past 17 years.

She was a devout churchgoer, often volunteering at events, attending service with her son, Yoshiki, every week without fail. There was no day that she missed. Many members who knew her testify to her kind, sincere, and gentle spirit. Her humble nature and quiet strength spoke volumes. She had a quiet but impactful presence and her absence will be felt by everyone who knew her, whether they knew her closely or just in passing.

Kazue will remain in our memory as a hardworking mother and a devoted member of the church community. She will always be remembered for her gentle and caring soul that brought joy to those around her. Everything she did was out of love for her family, God, and her community; and even when it went unnoticed, she never stopped. Despite her calm nature, her strength and courage can be seen through the pain she quietly endured. Her warm smile and comforting presence will be deeply missed by the people whose lives she touched during her time here.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, March 9, 2024 at 10:00 AM PDT
Location: Los Angeles Family Church (2301 Findlay Ave, Monterey Park, CA 91754)

GoFundMe to support the family: https://gofund.me/60b527e8

Link to the livestream via Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85187957634?pwd=QlphNEZ6SE5VYk04b0pLbDhEQmpPdz09
Meeting ID: 851 8795 7634
Passcode: 357804

In Memory of Lori Julius-Walker

Leora (Lori) Julius-Walker

Spouse: Curtis Walker
Birthdate: September 5, 1955
Blessing: April 20, 1998
Ascension: February 22, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: February 27, 2024

Born on Monday, September 5, 1955, to her parents--Henry and Lillian Julius--Leora (Lori) Julius-Walker was the second of two daughters and the ninth of ten siblings. When her older sister, Beverly, was killed in a tragic household accident at the age of 10, Lori became the only sister of eight brothers at two years old. In this position, Lori learned to stand her ground and to carve out her own place and identity within the Julius household. 

The values embraced by her Baptist-Christian parents would guide Lori throughout her middle-school and high-school years, and classmates in both Pipestone, Minnesota and Jasper, Minnesota gained great respect for Lori and for the moral and ethical choices she was known to make. Lori's mother, Lillian, was a fervent Bible student, and this would rub off on Lori in significant ways.  

As humble, sincere, hard-working, and patriotic farmers, Lori's parents set good examples for her. Lori came to know and to love Jesus, and she made Jesus the Lord of her life while still in her early teens. Evangelist Billy Graham's crusades and writings had a strong impact upon Lori's life.  

At the age of twenty-one, while traveling through Wyoming, Lori met a Shelly Watanabe, a member of the Unification Movement. They struck up a friendship, and through this, Lori met the Divine Principle and True Parents. Lori's spirit resonated with the teachings, and she committed her life to attending True Parents. 

Despite various spiritual "bumps in the road," Lori participated in the Marriage Blessing in 1995. The subsequent challenges proved too overwhelming, however, and that relationship dissolved. While working alongside Nora Spurgin and with WORLD & I MAGAZINE, Lori kept her faith in the ideal of Blessed Marriage. 

During the Christmas season of 1997, a mutual friend, Victor Matos, told Lori of a brother in Houston, Texas who was interested in rematching and re-blessing. Victor gave Lori's phone number to Curtis Walker in Houston, and Curtis called and introduced himself to Lori. To make a long story short, Curtis and Lori were rematched and re-blessed in Houston, Texas on April 20, 1998, by Pastor Ichinori and Vera Tsumagari. Curtis and Lori are participants in the 2075 Couples' Blessing.  

What has followed has been twenty-six years of ever-increasing love and passion between them, as they dealt with healing the man-woman and Black-White providential histories, while growing closer to God and to True Parents as a couple. 

There are no words for how much Curtis will miss her.  They had just returned from the Las Vegas Cheong Shim Won session of January 14 - January 20, 2024, when Lori suddenly took ill. She had been fighting Neuroendocrine cancer since 2016.  May Heaven open wide His arms of welcome, as Lori returns home on the wings of love.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Cards and condolences may be sent to the family at:
Rev. Curtis W. Walker
5760 East Red Oak Drive
No. 312
Sioux Falls, South Dakota 57110-4012

In Memory of Janine Takahashi

Janine Takahashi

Spouse: Kei Takahashi
Children: Dylan
Birthdate: October 31, 1959
Blessing: January 12, 1989
Seonghwa Ceremony: February 25, 2024

Janine Kathleen Takahashi (née Godsell), embarked on a remarkable journey through life, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Born on October 31, 1959, in Melbourne Australia to Verna Florence Godsell and Michael Peter Godsell, she was one of four children— Lawrence Godsell, Maree Oddy, and Kenneth Godsell.

From the very beginning, it was evident that Janine had a destiny. The early years of her life were characterized by spending time with her many friends and going to local football matches with her father to watch their team play. After the matches—win, lose, or draw—they would go to the local pub for lemonade and chips. She navigated the challenge of losing her mother at the young age of 13 with resilience, leaning on her older sister for support.

Janine, a spirited soul, preferred the company of friends on weekends rather than staying alone. Embracing the fashion of her era with flared denim jeans, velvet, floral dresses, and recycled tire “Tread Platform shoes,” she exuded a unique style. Working part-time at a local Hardware Store, she diligently saved to make a move to St Kilda, a trendy suburb of Melbourne. To fund her adventurous spirit, she took on extra shifts at a Melbourne pub, amassing enough to embark on overseas travels with her friend, Georgia.

Janine ventured beyond Melbourne and backpacked all over Europe with Georgia, working different jobs, including at a Kibbutz in Israel. Garmisch in Germany, Egypt, and Greece were a few of her favorite places. She embraced the diversity of life, learning and growing with each new adventure.

In October 1981, Janine joined the Unification Church in San Francisco, CA. Some months later, she traveled across the US just after God’s Day 1982 with her spiritual father, Stephen Roomet, and several other team members. Over the course of the following years, Janine embarked upon a course of spiritual growth that deepened her life of faith and her commitment to make the world a better place. Her path was one of constant learning and of personal inner growth right up until her passing. She continuously studied health and wellness and honed her innate spiritual gifts for the sake of helping others along their life paths.

From around 1987 to the early 1990s, Janine played a pivotal role with the witnessing team at 43rd St HQ as a team mother and nurturing figure. As part of this program—which arose from the closure of MFT and aimed to provide opportunities for spiritual growth to members who hadn’t yet experienced witnessing—Janine’s outspoken nature and compassionate spirit made her a cornerstone of the team. Known for sharing her heart and opinions freely, she dedicated her energy wholeheartedly to the care and support of others.

During this time, an evangelical team under Dr. Tyler Hendricks went on a three-month campaign going state to state to cities west of the Mississippi witnessing to college students. Janine bonded with her team over a shared love of coffee, and when they returned to New York, she, along with a few others, opened up the coffee shop, Crossings, at the 43rd Street headquarters. Janine’s unwavering commitment to nurturing spiritual growth left an enduring impact on all who were fortunate enough to know her during this time. It was in this phase of her life that she and Kei Takahashi were Blessed on January 12, 1989 as part of the 1,275 couple Blessing Ceremony held in Seoul, Korea.

However, it was in her subsequent role as the Executive/Personal Assistant to Hyo Jin Moon that Janine truly found her stride, dedicating an impressive 14 years to supporting him until his passing in March of 2008. Janine’s professional life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her mission.

Janine first came to Manhattan Center Studios (MC) in 1994 when she was hired as an assistant to the then executive management of the company. She had been prompted to work at MC by her own continuing sense of mission and having heard Hyo Jin Nim speak of his vision in public speeches. At MC, Janine had the opportunity to at first engage Hyo Jin Nim in the same way she did other company leaders. Her relationship with him quickly deepened. Becoming ever more familiar with the challenges he was then going through, she sought to be a consistent friend and an effective confidant, and Janine’s resolve and commitment were only strengthened. In time, her role as his Executive/Personal Assistant was confirmed and endured until his passing in March 2008.

Janine attended Hyo Jin Nim’s Holy Wedding to Yeon Ah Nim on February 5, 1999. She became intimately involved as their family began to grow being present at the birth of each of their five children: Shin Chul, Shin Heung, Shin Yuh, Shin Soon, and Shin Jin. Janine’s relationship with each member of Hyo Jin Nim’s family continued up until her recent passing and will continue far beyond.

In 2007, Janine Takahashi brought Hyo Jin Nim and his family to Gloucester for a memorable vacation. Preferring the tranquility of nature, Janine envisioned a retreat filled with family togetherness and scenic beauty. Janine reconnected effortlessly with friends from her own prior experience through Ocean Challenge two decades prior, and her warmth and genuine affection for the children shone through as she introduced them to her favorite spots like Good Harbor and Half Moon Beach.

With her Australian roots grounding her love for the beach, Janine infused every summer in Gloucester with a sense of joy, relaxation, and excitement. From those initial years spent with family to later summers shared with friends and her beloved son, Dylan, Janine became an integral part of the Gloucester community. Her gatherings, whether around food or a campfire, were marked by a spirit of inclusivity and celebration of life’s simple pleasures. Janine’s multifaceted nature was evident in her sensitivity towards others, always mindful not to burden or overstay her welcome. Yet, her presence was eagerly anticipated each summer, symbolizing a sense of belonging for Janine, Dylan, Masaya, Kana, and all who knew them in Gloucester.

Janine was intrinsically involved in all aspects of MC’s business. She represented Hyo Jin Nim in all elements of MC’s growth including the upgrade/renovation of the Log Cabin recording studio; the upgrade of Studio 9’s editing facilities; significant long-term and successive television deals with Cablevision’s Metro Channel, Atlantic Video, ESPN and other significant projects. In her distinct role at MC, Janine was as comfortable with prominent performing and recording artists as she was with each employee at MC no matter their position or title.

As Hyo Jin Nim expanded his vision for MC to Korea (MCK), Japan (MCJ) and his initial efforts with MC-China, Janine was with him. She toured with him when he and his band performed internationally and inevitably she became much beloved by the members of the HJ Moon band. Throughout the demanding song conditions that Hyo Jin Nim had set for himself, and which he completed, Janine was a constant supporter and companion when she’d visit his Belvedere Studio.

Following Hyo Jin Nim’s passing in March 2008, Janine’s work at MC came to a close as new incoming leadership took over. She shifted into a new phase of her life operating from her home that she shared with the Tateishi family, Masaya and his daughter, Kana, across the Hudson in New City, NY. From there, she continued her active attendance of Hyo Jin Nim’s family and maintained relationships with those among his tribe to such a degree, that over time, her home became colloquially known as “HJN HQ.” Those she met in her expanding and concentric social circles came under her love and care. She entertained friends and family, visitors and guests, in her own inimitable way. But her primary focus in this latter phase of her life was to nurture and raise her son, Dylan, who came into her life in a distinct and blessed manner. To meet and speak with Dylan, now 12 years old, is a testament to her greatest life work.

Janine embraced the profound journey of motherhood, transforming her world with boundless love and selflessness. Welcoming Dylan into her life on July 14, 2011, Janine found immeasurable joy in the tender moments that defined parenthood. Navigating the intricacies of raising a family, Janine approached every challenge with grace and determination. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond the home, influencing the lives of those fortunate enough to witness the beautiful tapestry of maternal devotion she wove. Through the laughter, tears, and countless shared milestones, Janine’s legacy as a loving mother will forever echo in the hearts of her son and all who were touched by her boundless love and warmth.

In the final chapter of Janine’s extraordinary journey, she faced a brief yet intense battle with endometrial cancer, demonstrating unparalleled strength and resilience. Throughout this challenging period, Janine exemplified grace and courage, inspiring all who witnessed her unwavering spirit. Surrounded by the love and support of family and friends, she navigated the complexities of medical treatments with determination, displaying a remarkable sense of optimism even in the face of adversity. In this trying time, Janine continued to find joy in cherished moments, creating lasting memories that served as a testament to her unyielding spirit.

Janine’s life was a beacon of love, kindness, and care. She touched the lives of countless individuals, spanning multiple generations, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Sunday, February 25, 2024 from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Location: Manhattan Center’s Grand Ballroom (311 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001)

To honor and celebrate the life of Janine Takahashi we invite those unable to attend this event in person at Manhattan Center's Grand Ballroom to join via the link below.

The link to the live video streaming page is: https://vimeo.com/event/4108342/b784831355

In Memory of Anthony La Hogue

Anthony La Hogue

Spouse: Maria La Hogue
Children: Michael, Alisha
Birthdate: March 20, 1953
Blessing: January 12, 1989
Ascension: January 4, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: February 10, 2024

Anthony Roy La Hogue was born on March 20, 1953, in Wanganui New Zealand to Raphael Roy and Annie Margaret La Hogue. He was one of five children - Rae, Elizabeth (died in early adulthood), Peter (died in infancy), Tony, and David. After graduating high school, he worked in a bank in NZ for one year and a bank in London for three, then worked in Australia cleaning huge trucks used in mines, and in a meat-processing plant back in NZ. Tony’s M.O. was working to save enough to travel, and then traveling until he needed to work again.

Tony met the Unification Church in April 1979 in Berkeley, California, when he was approached at a bus station by Laurence Baer and a brother named Tony, also from NZ (Dr. and Mrs. Durst encouraged brothers and sisters to “find your second self” while witnessing, and that seems to have worked perfectly in this case). After hearing the Divine Principle, Tony La Hogue quickly joined and began working in a carpet cleaning company owned and run by church members, “Champion Services.” Within two months of joining the church, he moved to Houston to help the Champion branch there and in 1981 moved with Champion again, this time to New York City. The coworkers at Champion were very close-knit and many lived together or close by one another.

Through the 1980s, Champion expanded their scope of the work to include interior contracting, woodworking, and refinishing. In addition to working as a crew boss and doing sales, Tony also took on responsibility for accounting, given his previous experience working in banks. In 1989, along with seven other members of the Champion family, Tony travelled to Korea for the Blessing.

On January 12, 1989, Tony was Blessed to Maria Mikl from Klagenfurt, Austria. After their Blessing in 1989, Tony and Ria found a small apartment in Queens near the Champion community there. Soon thereafter, Tony assumed management of Champion, into which he invested his heart and effort for another two decades.

In 1990, Tony and Ria received Romania as a mission country, and Tony went there three times to conduct missionary work. The first time, he had to race back to America as Ria was giving birth to their first child weeks early, but unfortunately missed the birth due to a snowstorm over New York. Michael Seung Bok Peter was born on February 16, 1991. Parenting was tough but evidently not that bad, and Tony and Ria welcomed their second child, Alisha Sun Ae Gertrude, into the world on August 15, 1992.

Tony’s love for traveling continued and grew with his family, and together they traveled to many parts of the world. Somehow, Tony’s love of the exotic didn’t extend to food, and he always seemed to want to eat a hamburger, whether in Germany, Greece, France, or Korea. Tony loved spending time with his family – going skiing with family friends, reading books together at bedtime, or enjoying a (big) bowl of ice cream while watching a movie or the latest episode of Survivor or the Amazing Race.

Tony was an active member in both his faith community and with a nonprofit called “The Mankind Project,” which helps men heal, grow, and understand themselves. In the late 2000s and early 2010s, as a result of the Great Recession, Tony gave up Champion and eventually began working as a financial planner, life insurance salesman, and tax preparer. He was passionate about helping people, especially his brothers and sisters in the Church, do whatever possible to be financially healthy and often worked late into the night to accomplish this. He was also always generous to friends in need as well as relative strangers, donating regularly to Native American schools and church members in developing countries.

Mickey and Alisha had left New York by the mid to late-2010s, which gave Tony plenty of reasons to feed his love of travel. He and Ria attended Mickey’s Marriage Blessing ceremony in Korea in 2017 as well as his civil wedding to Nicole (née Thurner), which Alisha officiated in Hawaii in 2018. Tony often visited Alisha in Hawaii and in South Carolina, where she married Carter Collins, a Marine Corps officer, in 2023. (Tony had flunked out of a student military training program as a teenager in NZ, but somehow both of his children became connected to the US military!) Tony became a grandfather in 2020, with the birth of Mickey’s son, Elijah, and then again in 2022, when Colette was born—he loved playing with and doting on his grandkids, and they cherished “Pop pop.”

Tony spent the last few years of his life working hard during tax season, then spending at least 3 months a year with Ria in her mother’s home in Austria; and getting started on his dream of traveling around the world, with trips to Germany, Greece, the Dominican Republic, Croatia, Slovenia, and Egypt. In December 2023, Tony and Ria traveled to Barbados to spend a few weeks house sitting and enjoying the tropical beach life; however, just after Christmas, Tony contracted Dengue Fever and was hospitalized. A few days after being released, he was readmitted and passed away on January 4, 2024, at 8:20 pm, from a secondary infection that he had caught during his first hospitalization.

Tony is survived by his sister, Rae; his brother, David; David’s children, Daniel and Annie; his wife, Ria; his son, Michael, daughter-in-law, Nicole, and their two children, Elijah and Colette; his daughter, Alisha, and son-in-law, Carter; and many dear friends.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 2:00 PM EST
Location: Manhattan Family Church (4 W 43rd Street New York, NY 10036)

To join the livestream of the ceremony click here.

The family has created a memorial fund for any donations and requests that fund be used in lieu of sending flowers. Please share any memories or stories of Tony at his memorial page.

In Memory of Akihiro Maeda

Akihiro Maeda

Spouse: Naoyo Maeda
Children: Hirotoshi, Haruka, Junna
Birthdate: February 27, 1961
Blessing: January 12, 1989
Seonghwa Ceremony: January 21, 2024

Akihiro Maeda was born on Feburary 27, 1961 in Takamatsu, Japan. Akihiro was the eldest son of Susumu and Yoshiko Maeda. When he was 17 years old, right before his university entrance exam, Akihiro’s father, Susumu, passed away suddenly after a car crash. Even in the face of hardship and sorrow, he did not give up. He enrolled in Kanagawa University to study law. During his second year at Kanagawa University, Akihiro met his spiritual father and joined CARP. 

After graduating, Akihiro dedicated his time to serving the church. In December of 1985, Akihiro moved to America. He began working at New York Fish House when he was 24 years old. When he was 27 years old, Akihiro took on the challenge of running the New York Marathon and finished in 4 hours. Akihiro was matched to Naoyo on March 27, 1987, and was blessed to her on January 12, 1989. Naoyo moved to America and the couple started living together in New Jersey in 1993. 

Akihiro and Naoyo moved to Seattle in March of 1995. Their eldest son, Hirotoshi, was born in August of that year. Then, their daughter, Haruka, was born in November of 1996. Their last child, Junna, was born in April of 1999. Akihiro was a devoted father who loved his family deeply. He took his family out for walks, movies, and vacations. Akihiro became the manager for the Portland branch of True World Foods and transferred to Vancouver, Washington in 2006. 

In 2014, Akihiro moved to the Bay Area and worked as a salesman for True World Foods. For three years, Akihiro drove 10 hours to visit his family in Washington every weekend. In October of 2017, Naoyo moved to California to start living with Akihiro. In 2018, Akihiro suddenly collapsed at work and was diagnosed with an aortic dissection. He was rushed to Stanford Hospital for emergency surgery. He survived and recovered. Akihiro worked tirelessly to support his family and worked at True World Foods for 39 years. 

On December 8, 2023, Akihiro had a sudden and very rare spinal stroke at home. In the blink of an eye, he suddenly collapsed and became paralyzed from the waist down. He was admitted to the hospital for rehabilitation for three weeks. He was surrounded by love and support from his family. Akihiro worked hard to try to get back on his feet despite the obstacles in his way. On January 11, 2024, he was discharged from his rehabilitation program. Akihiro was happy and excited to return home with his family. Upon arriving home, he was able to rest in peace and ascended to the spirit world. His Seonghwa Ceremony was held on January 21.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Sunday January 21, 2024

In Memory of Shoji Mitsuishi

Shoji Mitsuishi 

Spouse: Eriko Mitsuishi
Children: Portion (Kiyoshi)
Birthdate: April 12, 1949
Blessing: February 8 , 1975
Ascension: January 27, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: February 3, 2024

Shoji Mitsuishi was born on April 12, 1949 to Takiko and Hitoshi Mitsuisui in Nagano, Japan. He was the oldest of five siblings, and his younger brother was adopted into his aunt’s family. His family was an agricultural one, farming rice in the countryside of Japan. Born into a hardworking family, Shoji started working as a milk boy and delivering newspapers when he was only 10. As a child, he enjoyed fishing and swimming, hobbies he continued to enjoy throughout his entire life.

In March 1969, while preparing for his university entrance exam in Tokyo, he was witnessed to by Ryoko Kiriyama and decided to join the Unification Church. In April 1969, he entered Takasaki Ichiritsu University, earning a degree in Economics. He was also an active CARP member on campus, witnessing and preaching about the importance of Victory Over Communism.

In January 1975, he was matched to his wife, Eriko Mitsuishi. They later went on to receive the 1800 couple Holy Marriage Blessing on February 8th, 1975 in Seoul, South Korea. He continued his witnessing and preaching in the streets of Japan. Shortly after the Blessing, he was chosen by True Father to become a foreign missionary in the country of Venezuela. After fundraising to support his mission, Shoji left for Venezuela in May of that year to start his mission of witnessing and spreading Unification Theology. For four years, Shoji pioneered in Venezuela, learning Spanish and witnessing. Near the end of 1979 his wife Eriko joined him in Venezuela. Shoji and Eriko sold Ginseng together to make ends meet. Later, they founded a natural food store and continued to grow their own small church.

In 1987, while in a spiritual church retreat in Columbia, they received a beautiful opportunity from Carl and Tania Redmond, who volunteered to offer them a child to adopt and raise as their own. Carl and Tania Redmond flew to Venezuela a year later and Hironori Portion Mitsuishi was born on August 6th, 1988 and was raised as part of the Mitsuishi family from birth.

The new family of three lived in Venezuela until 1993, when Shoji was given a new mission of witnessing in Russia. They moved and lived in Moscow and Nizhny Novgorod, witnessing and learning Russian. They have many spiritual children who are still part of the church to this day.

After 21 years of missionary work, Shoji received an award of honors for his dedication to the mission by True Father. In 1996, he was given his next mission to pioneer in the country of Samoa as the National Messiah. First, the family moved to Japan—Shoji spent three months in Samoa, while Eriko stayed in Japan with Portion. While back in Japan, Shoji worked part-time to financially support his mission in Samoa. Three years later Shoji attended a workshop in Jardim, Brazil. There, Shoji received his next mission: to help Pioneer and establish a new project in Leda, Paraguay. In 2000, Eriko and Portion moved to Miami, FL which gave Portion an opportunity to learn English. During this period of time, Shoji traveled regularly between Miami and Paraguay as he continued his missionary work in Leda for the next ten years.

In 2010, Shoji and Eriko moved back to Miami to be with Portion. He started to work for True World Foods, and all three of them lived together. Portion was blessed to his wife, Kiyoshi, and a couple of years later, Shoji became a Grandpa, endearingly being called “Jiji” by his grandchildren, Mika and Caleb. Even after retirement, Shoji continued to work part-time and really enjoyed spending time with his family. One of his fondest memories is traveling to Japan as a family of three generations in May 2023. He was so happy being all together and was eager to show his grandkids a glimpse of his Japanese roots.

Shoji was an avid swimmer, swimming almost daily. He loved to be present with his grandkids, visiting often and spending quality time with them. His grandkids would always greet “Jiji” excitedly as he walked into the house. He had a very big heart for people and was always interested in getting to know them more deeply.

Shoji transitioned to the spiritual world in the early morning of January 27, 2024 at home in the arms of his wife, Eriko. He is survived by Eriko'; his son, Portion; his daughter-in-law, Kiyoshi; and his grandchildren, Mika and Caleb Mitsuishi. Shoji dedicated his life to the Unification Church, being assigned the difficult task of pioneering many countries through his own efforts. He was a great Jiji, and he will be dearly missed by his family, especially his grandkids.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, February 3, 2024 at 3:00 PM EDT (Doors open 1:00 PM)
Location: Family Church of South Florida (11810 NW 19th St. Plantation, FL 33323)

Livestream will be available on Saturday at: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85667219250?pwd=K5c4hNZb8NcmhN29n25Wk4yzjcnHb5.1

If you would like to support the Mitsuishi family both financially or other ways during this time, you can visit this webpage: https://mealtrain.com/2z51l7

Flowers and cards can be sent to the Mitsuishi residence:
Mrs. Eriko Mitsushi
12629 NW 15th St
Sunrise, FL 33323

In Memory of Jerry Parks

Jerry Parks

Spouse: Emiko Parks
Children: Naomi, Christopher
Birthdate: April 16, 1953
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: January 9, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: January 21, 2024

Jerry Kenneth Parks was born in Rome, New York on April 16, 1953 to Kenneth and Donna Loveless. He had one brother, David, who was 5 years younger. Jerry had a nice childhood surrounded by his grandparents and parents. He often spoke of the snowy cold winters in upstate New York with lots of snow shoveling and ice hockey. Both of his parents were musicians, and music played a large role in his life. Jerry played the drums and guitar, participating in marching band in high school and occasionally performing with his dad and brother.

He attended college for two years at the State University of New York, with a focus on engineering. After graduating he became a musician full-time, soon touring as a drummer with a country western rock band, Southern Comfort. He often told the story of this time period, where he had a life-changing experience of finding his faith and giving his life to Jesus Christ. He left the music industry despite the band signing a record deal. “The music industry was a one-way ticket to Hell,” he recounted.

Jerry moved to Albany, NY, and in August of 1975 had another life-changing experience of faith in meeting and joining the Unification Church. He became a full-time missionary, coordinating events and workshops and playing music. He spent seven years in a missionary group called MFT and was a captain for 5 years. He was dedicated to the mission of bringing peace to the world and sharing the truth.

In 1980 in New York City, Jerry was introduced to and “matched” by Rev. Moon to Emiko Kuroi, from Niigata, Japan. They were blessed in marriage on July 1, 1982 at Madison Square Garden along with over 2,000 couples.

Jerry worked for a church-related machinery company, Saeilo Machinery, for about 10 years. The couple continued their missionary work, with Jerry even spending some time in Hong Kong. They spent a few years in Chicago, Illinois, where Jerry joined another band, this time with fellow church members. He wrote songs and played the drums for the band, called Jacob.

In 1989 Jerry and Emiko moved to New York, where their first child Naomi was born. In 1995, just before their second child, Christopher, was born, they moved to Florida to be closer to Jerry’s mother. In recent years, he often expressed to his children how proud he was of them.

Jerry had several health challenges over the years, battling diabetes for over 35 years and related kidney disease since 2018. He always kept fighting through the various challenges and kept up a good attitude, often using humor and telling jokes.

He was a generous friend, loving father, and caring husband. Jerry will be remembered as a dreamer and charismatic storyteller with lots of hope and optimism for a better life, for both the world and his family.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Sunday, January 21, 2024 at 10:30 AM 
Location: Magnolia Room at Harry P. Leu Gardens (1920 N Forest Ave, Orlando, FL 32803)

The Parks Family thanks everyone for your support and for reaching out.  You can continue to support the family by donating here: https://gofund.me/05998e50

If you wish to send a message to the family, please email: naomidonna@gmail.com or ricefield1@gmail.com

In Memory of Paul Yasutake

Paul Yasutake

Spouse: Gertrud Yasutake
Children: Christoph, Tim, Toby, Peter
Birthdate: April 19, 1947
Blessing: February 8, 1975
Ascension: January 19, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: January 27, 2024

Paul Yasutake was born in Honolulu as the youngest of 6 siblings. His grandfather came from Japan to Hawaii as a carpenter, and his parents were born in Hawaii, making Paul a “sansei,” or 3rd generation Japanese in Hawaii. When he was 9, the whole family moved to Los Angeles where he finished high school.

Paul joined the army from 1966 to 1969, but was not drafted for the Vietnam War. Instead, God sent him into the heavenly battle of waking up America—in 1970, he joined the Unification Movement while going to college. He was soon immersed into all the activities of those days: One World Crusade, training seminars, leading a center in NYC, workshop staff at Barrytown, and graduating as part of the Unification Theological Seminary’s first class. In 1975, Paul and his wife, Gertrud, participated in the 1800 couples’ Blessing in Korea.

His busy life continued, first as State Leader of Connecticut then New Hampshire. As leader of an International One World Crusade team (IOWC) he then travelled from New England down to the south, becoming State Leader of Florida. As the Top Gun providence was put together under the American Constitution Committee (ACC), Dr. Park sent him to his beloved Hawaii to do political work and bring public leaders to conferences. In Hawaii, Paul started his career as a realtor.

By the time he volunteered for work as National Messiah to Bosnia, the Yasutake family had grown to include their four boys, Christoph, Tim, Toby, and Peter. In December 1996, they packed up everything and moved to Europe—Paul to Bosnia and Gertrud and the children to Germany. The Bosnian war had just ended, with ruins visible and the country still having more landmines than people in its borders.

The chance to return to America came in the fall of 1998, as New Eden High School needed staff and dorm parents. So, the Yasutake family moved to Bridgeport, Connecticut. Since then, Paul has been a member of the Bridgeport church community, doing American Family Coalition (AFC) work, organizing the Brothers of Bridgeport, and establishing himself as an experienced realtor.

In his later years, Paul had to pay close attention to his inherited diabetes. Ailments of the heart crept in, which the doctors tried to address with a triple bypass in 2015. His heart finally gave out in the evening of January 19, after a few bites of sushi and some sips of his favorite hot tea.

His lineage continues with his son Christoph, his spouse, Lena, children Telani, Kohan, and Zizi; with his son Tim, his spouse, Rosi, children Ben and Alanna; his son Toby, his spouse, Anna, children Taavi, Zaavi, and Thea; and his son Peter, his spouse, Mo, and baby Niko.

Gertrud envisions all Paul’s wonderful friends and loved ones sending him off simultaneously from different points of the globe, from Hawaii to Bosnia, from Germany to Brazil. If you are not able to join in person in Bridgeport on January 27 at 11:00 EDT, please send a paper boat down a stream, pop some balloons or let them fly, spark some firecrackers or raise a glass, light a candle or climb a hill and give Paul a yodel and shout-out. Let’s make Saturday a good day for lift-off!

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 11:00 AM EDT
Location: Spurgin Hall (285 Lafayette St. Bridgeport, CT 06604)

To Join the livestream of the service click here.
Meeting ID: 853 1756 9115
Passcode: 026972

Fond memories and well wishes may be sent to the family at: gy1800@hotmail.com

In Memory of Talmadge Lambert

Talmadge Lonnie Lambert

Spouse: Elise Lambert
Birthdate: January 29, 1950
Blessing: July 1, 1982
Ascension: December 15, 2023
Seonghwa Ceremony: December 20, 2023

Talmadge Lonnie Lambert Jr. was born in Philadelphia, PA on January 29, 1950 to Rev. Talmadge Lonnie Lambert and Vivian Lambert. He was the youngest of two children, with a sister 20 years his senior. Sundays were spent in the Lambert Chapel in Brooklyn, NY where his dad was pastor. Talmadge was raised in the church. He was a quiet boy who enjoyed reading.

He attended college in his hometown at Drexell University with the hope of becoming a civil engineer. Talmadge had a quiet yet strong desire to simply do good. After attending Divine Principle workshops, he joined the Unification Church Philadelphia in 1973 and dedicated himself to various missions. Being rather shy, Talmadge never really prospered in general church activities. However, being a sincere and responsible man when he was called to the mission, Talmadge became a master printer (for 35 years) for Going Up Press the source of many publications for the Unification movement.

Talmadge was blessed in marriage to Elise Olshansky in the 2075 couple Blessing at Madison Square Garden in July 1982. As a couple, they were delighted to experience the unity and love of God in their interracial blessing, and perhaps that was the beginning of what most defined Talmadge’s life—unity.

Talmadge made every effort to try to understand the uniqueness of people, religions and cultures. He loved God and had been known to have a prophetic anointing in some Christian circles. He also embraced the traditions of Judaism by learning the Hebrew prayers for Shabbat and Chanukah because of Elise's upbringing in the Jewish faith. He has a deep heart with compassion for others.

Talmadge was a good listener and a good singer. He seemed quiet and reserved but had a creative side underneath. Have you ever heard him sing the “Banana Boat Song” by Harry Belafonte? He would light up the room! Although he and Elise never had children, he loved children, and they responded to him in kind. This made him feel a fatherly heart towards all children in general.

Talmadge was an adventurous man with an open mind to learn new ideas. He always trusted that God would lead him and guide him throughout his life. Talmadge was diagnosed with kidney disease and cancer in the last years of his life. Nonetheless he kept a kind and caring demeanor during visits until he peacefully departed this mortal realm.

Talmadge Lonnie Lambert Jr. is a man of God. People called him a “gentle giant” because he was six feet tall and a gentleman who cares about people everywhere. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Elise, and his Unification family.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: December 20, 2023 at 10:00 AM EDT
Location: Clifton Family Church (78 DeMott Ave Clifton, NJ 07011)

Condolence cards may be sent to the family at:
7F Garden Terrace
North Arlington, NJ 07031

In Memory of Dae Wha Chung

Dae Wha Chung

Spouse: Young-Hwi Kim
Children: Jin-geun Kim, Yeon-sook Park, Eun-sook Kim, Jin-ho Moon, Nam-sook Kim, Jin-man Kwak, Hyo-sook Kim, In-seok Shin, Jin-il Kim, Jeong-ju Kwon
Birthdate: December 30, 1932
Blessing: April 16, 1960
Ascension: November 25, 2023
Seonghwa Ceremony: November 29, 2023

President Dae-wha Chung was born in Hwanghae-do in on December 30, 1932, and joined the Unification Church in 1955 while attending Ewha Woman’s University. She was blessed with President Young-hwi Kim in 1960 as part of the first three couples blessed by True Parents. She became Secretary General of the Women’s Federation for World Peace in 1992 and was the 3rd President of the Federation in 1997. Her couple was registered in Cheonbo in 2020. On November 25, 2023, she passed away at the age of 90. Her Seonghwa Ceremony was held at Asan Hospital’s Seong Hwa Ceremony Hall at 7AM on November 29, 2023.

The Seonghwa ceremony was held graciously, with Vice President Ki-sik Lee officiating, a representative prayer from Cheon shim Center Director, Ki-seong Lee, a reading of an ode by poet Deok-myeong Yoon, and a letter reading from Hong-seon Moon.

Gwang-seok Song, president of the New Heavenly Korea FFPWU, who attended the Seonghwa Ceremony, said, “Chairman Chung, along with Chairman Kim Young-hwi, not only served as a domestic helper as the family representing Abraham and Jacob, but also took on a key role in True Mother’s WFWP in the 1990s, contributing greatly to the development of the providence … We will never forget this person’s life of absolute faith for Heaven, and I pray that you enter heaven where our dearly missed True Father awaits you with a fresh heart.”

Jin-geun Kim, the eldest son of the bereaved family, said, “First of all, I would like to thank True Mother for allowing the Association’s Seonghwa Ceremony, and I regret not being able to say ‘I love you’ to my mother. I hope that the Unification Church will become a place of greater harmony.”

After the Seonghwa Ceremony at 10AM, there was a Memorial ceremony held at the Paju Wonjeon, with a representative prayer by Chairman Nan-young Moon, a speech and benediction from UPF Chairman Chang-sik Yang, and three cheers of Eog-Mansae by Senior Chairman Man-woong Cho.

Dae Wha Chung’s Biography

1932 Dec 30 Born in Jangyeon-gun, Hwanghae-do, the eldest of four children of her father, Jeong Yong-moon, and her mother, Song Dong-jun

1955 Feb 1 While attending Ewha Woman’s University, she joined the Unification Church under the guidance of Choi Soon-sil

1957 40 days pioneer evangelism to Dangjin, South Chungcheong Province

1960 Apr 16 3 Couples Blessing (Officiated by Chairman Kim Young-hwi)

1960 Dec Pioneer evangelism in Maseok, Gyeonggi-do

1962 Feb – 1965 Oct Seoul 2nd District Leader, 3rd District Leader’s Wife

1965 Oct ~ 1967 Aug Seoul District Leader’s Wife

1967 Aug ~ 1970 Jul HSA-UWC General Affairs Leader’s Wife

1970 Dec 1 ~ 1973 3 year Blessed Wives Witnessing activities (Mungyeong, Gyeongsangbuk-do)

1970 Aug 1 ~ 1981 Aug HSA-UWC President’s Wife

1974 ~ 1990 President of National Blessed Wives Association

1981 Aug ~ 1986 Apr 30 European Mission Director’s Wife

1986 May 1 ~ 1986 Oct 30 Vice President of International Federation for Victory over Communism’s Wife

1986 Nov 1 ~ 1990 Nov 22 President of HSA-UWC’s Wife

1986 Nov 1 ~ 1991 Jul 6 Chairman of International Federation for Victory over Communism’s Wife

1991 March Founding member and Director of Women’s Federation for Peace in Asia

1991 Jul 6 Washington Times President’s Wife

1992 Feb Secretary General of the WFWP

1992 Mar Chairman of Sunmoon Academy’s Wife

1993 Establishment of Seonhak Scholarship Committee (Chairman)

1993 ~ 1994 Vice President of Korea HSA-UWC

1994 Director AEWON Volunteer Organization

1995 Mar Raised 2.4 billion KRW in funds with Chairman Choi Won-bok as the first Secretary-General of the Sunhak Scholarship Foundation.

1996 National Messiah of Europe

1997 ~ 2003 3rd President of WFWP

1999 ~ 2013 2nd and 3rd Director of the Sunhak Scholarship Foundation

2013 ~ 2023 Honorary Chairman of the Sunhak Scholarship Foundation

2020 Oct 10 CheonBo Registration Complete KR00103

2023 Nov 25 October 13, 9AM by the heavenly calendar, in the 11th year of Cheon Il Guk, she passed away at the age of 90.

Education

1952 Apr ~ 1955 Mar 11 Dropped out of Ewha Woman’s University, Department of Home Economics on 3rd year (Ewha Womans University and Yonsei University incident)

1956 Apr ~ 1958 Mar Transferred to and graduated from Sookmyung Women’s University Department of Home Economics

Book: Autobiography: Life on the Path to Glory was published on 2018 Nov. 9.

Awards (True Parents Award): Achievement Award for 14-year career, Achievement plaque for over 33 years in missionary work, Cheon Il Guk Master Award, BC Special Achievement Award, and many others.

Family

Spouse: Young-Hwi Kim

Children: Jin-geun Kim, Yeon-sook Park, Eun-sook Kim, Jin-ho Moon, Nam-sook Kim, Jin-man Kwak, Hyo-sook Kim, In-seok Shin, Jin-il Kim, Jeong-ju Kwon

Grandchildren: Jung-ae Kim, Hyo-shu-min Song, Jung-sim Kim, Jung-yeol Kim, Yeon-sim Moon, Jae-gwan Seo, Hong-seon Moon, Ainai Kotoe, Jeong-yoon Moon, Hyang-mi Kwak, Yakawich John, Hyang-sim Kwak, Moik William, Pil-seon Kwak, Ju-young Seo, Hyang-hwa Kwak, Miles Nolen, Pil-seong Kwak, Hyang-bok Kwak, Yuna Shin, Young-ho Shin, Ho-young Kim, Hye-won Kim, Beom-woo Kim

Trinity Foundation: Won-pil Kim and Dal-ok Jeong, Hyo-won Hyo and Gil-ja Sa

Spiritual Children: Dong-yeon Lee, In-ok Kim, Sang-yeol Shin, Man-woong Jo, Yang-ja Kwon, Han-seop Yoo, Hwa-beom Lee, Do-soo Kim, Seung-il Lee, Seong-bok Hong, Jang-hoon Jo, Gil-yeon Lee and many others.

In Memory of Masayo Takahashi

Masayo Takahashi

Spouse: Toshiyuki Takahashi
Children: Yuka
Birthdate: December 31, 1964
Blessing: January 12, 1989.
Ascension: January 11, 2024
Seonghwa Ceremony: January 16, 2024

Masayo Takahashi passed away surrounded by her family on January 11, 2024, at age 59.

Born on December 31, 1964, Masayo spent her childhood in the city of Oomiya, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. She went on to pursue her studies at a technical school of business in Tokyo with the encouragement of her mentor. During this time, she learned of the Unification Church and began dedicating time to her faith as well as excelling in her studies. Being the diligent woman that she was, Masayo traveled all around Japan and the U.S. for more than 10 years fundraising with the Unification Church while striving for success in her accounting profession. Her combined knowledge of information processing, English, accounting, and secretarial work from this time became the cornerstone of her dedicated 23-year career in accounting for One World Market, Inc.

Whether it be her professional life or her private life, she was accepting and earnest with every person she met and was open minded to all ideas. Masayo went with the flow and accepted whatever opportunities came her way.

It was in New York that she met her husband, Toshiyuki, at an engagement ceremony in 1987. They continued their long-distance relationship for two years and was finally blessed in marriage in Korea on January 12, 1989. After many miles apart, they finally bought their first home in Illinois in 1995 and had their first daughter, Yuka, in 1996. While they enjoyed their time there, they ultimately made Metro Detroit their home in 1997.

Masayo took great delight in spending quality time with her family. Together, they traveled on memorable family trips to breathtaking destinations such as Niagara Falls, Mackinac Island, and Traverse City, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and love. Her family was complete when they brought home Max, their dog, in 2007. She continued to enjoy her daily life in recent years by exploring new restaurants and cafes with Yuka, where they enjoyed food and conversation.

Masayo's commitment to nurturing strong family connections extended beyond her immediate household, as she cultivated a vibrant community of friends. Their gatherings at play dates and playgrounds provided a fun environment where all the children could play together, forming lifelong bonds.

In fact, Masayo was a beacon of warmth and neighborly spirit to any community. She would greet neighbors with heartfelt gifts when settling into a new home. And from strangers to friends, she extended a welcoming hand with refreshments whenever someone visited her home. Masayo's open-hearted approach to life was a reflection of her compassionate personality. Though soft-spoken, Masayo's presence was anything but shy, leaving an enduring impression on those fortunate enough to receive her kindness. Her legacy lives on in the countless hearts she touched through simple acts of generosity and genuine connection.

Masayo is survived by her beloved husband, Toshiyuki, and caring daughter, Yuka. She was preceded in death by her parents, Yoshio and Ikuko Shimamura, and her brother, Akira Shimamura.

Seonghwa Ceremony

Date: Tuesday January 16, 2024 at 6:00 PM EDT (Viewing will be from 3:00 to 6:00 PM)
Location: Lynch & Sons Funeral Home (1368 N Crooks Rd Clawson, MI 48017)

Please wear white or cream for women and suit with white tie for men

To Join the Seonghwa Ceremony via zoom click here.

Won Jeon Ceremony will be held on Friday January 12, 2023 at 10:00 AM EDT
Location: Acacia Park Cemetery (31300 Southfield Rd Beverly Hills MI)

Lunch at the Michigan Church right after burial