Memorial service to be held for Mary Matsuda Gruenewald

She grew up on Vashon & was part of the island’s thriving community of Japanese Americans prior to WWII

September 29, 2021 1:30 am
(Nick Anderson Photo) Mary Matsuda Gruenewald, speaking at the 2013 Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, “This Place Matters” rally outside the Mukai Farm and Garden, which had been fenced off by those who then controlled the property. In a passionate speech, Matsuda Gruenewald drew cheers from the audience with her upraised hand.
(Nick Anderson Photo) Mary Matsuda Gruenewald, speaking at the 2013 Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, “This Place Matters” rally outside the Mukai Farm and Garden, which had been fenced off by those who then controlled the property. In a passionate speech, Matsuda Gruenewald drew cheers from the audience with her upraised hand.

The memorial service for Mary Matsuda Gruenewald, activist, author and health care professional, will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 16 at University Unitarian Church in Seattle.

Gruenewald grew up on Vashon and her family was part of a thriving community of Japanese Americans on the island prior to World War II. Later in life, Gruenewald was credited with lending her voice to support local efforts to put Vashon’s historic Mukai Farm & Garden national landmark back in the hands of the public.

A reception will be held immediately after the service in the church reception hall. There will also be an open microphone for attendees who wish to say a few words about Mary.

In order to protect the congregation and the public, all attendees must be fully vaccinated before Oct. 2 , wear face masks in the building and show proof of vaccination at the building entrance to be admitted. No children under 12 are allowed due to vaccination requirements. The capacity of the sanctuary will be limited in order to keep to social distancing requirements.

The service will also be live streamed at: https://www.uuchurch.org/memorial-service-live-stream/. University Unitarian Church is located at 6556 35th Ave NE, Seattle.