Mary Irene Tamasu

On Saturday, March 5, 2022, Mary Irene Tamasu passed away in her hometown of Pleasanton, CA at the age of 57.

Mary was born on March 5, 1965, in Deer River, MN to William and Patricia Schanen.  On May 4, 1996, she married the love of her life Koji Tamasu, and they raised their amazing son Jason. Youngest child of 5, she will be deeply missed by brothers Bill, Tim, Mike, and sister Cheryl.

Mary was a caring & gentle soul and became an LVN after high school working in the burn care unit at Washington Hospital in Fremont, CA.  Later, her career path changed, and she went on to become an escrow officer for more than 25 years.  She made meaningful relationships and brightened the day of all her co-workers and clients.

Mary faced many serious health issues from her teenage years into adulthood.  She had incredible mental toughness and bravery to endure the numerous trips to the hospital, physical therapy, and pain during physical healing.  Mary felt she was truly blessed for having her husband Koji, son Jason, and her older sister Cheryl, who gave her assistance every day in so many ways.  Their love for each other got them through difficult times and made the good times even better.

Mary was most excited about traveling. She saw amazing ports of calls while cruising the Caribbean.  She visited the islands of Aruba and Jamaica.  She was an avid reader and loved romance novels. She enjoyed movies, cooking, & paranormal shows.  She especially enjoyed watching football & hockey with her family. She was a huge 49ers & Sharks fan.

Mary loved to cook and bake. She made the best deviled eggs.  They were a party favorite.  Mary loved animals, especially her cats, Mouse and Tucker.  She had the kindest spirit, warmest smile, and was easy to talk to.  These were qualities that she shared with her mother, and she will be fondly remembered and missed, just like her.

“If love alone could have saved you, you never would have died.  You were gone in a moment and only God knows why.  In our hearts you hold a place that no one could ever fill.  It broke our hearts to lose you, but you didn’t go alone.  For part of us went with you, the day God took you home.” Author unknown