Obituary: Nishimura, Nancy Marie (Johnstone)
Age 63
She was born in Spokane on June 19, 1952 and lived nearly all of her 63 years in the Spokane Valley.
Nancy attended St. Paschal’s Grade School, Holy Names Academy, and SFCC, where she was actively involved in the pottery department.
She earned a dual bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington in Japanese Studies and textile design.
While studying in Seattle, she met her devoted and loving husband of 24 years, Hideaki.
She also earned a master’s degree to teach English as a Second Language from the University of Idaho.
She taught ESL at Gonzaga in the 90s.
One of her lifelong interests was nearly all aspects of Japanese culture.
Nancy was an amazing artist in several mediums, and had a keen eye for detail.
From her beautiful cobalt blue and white pottery, to her intricately decorated Japanese silk textiles, her sense of style was exquisite.
She was a prolific gardener and enjoyed growing beautiful flower gardens and colorful Japanese maples.
She also enjoyed Japanese brush painting (sumi-e), and flower arranging (ikebana), as well as sewing and knitting.
She owned and operated Green Thumb Nursery in Veradale for the last 15 years, taking over the family business that her father, Fay, began.
Nancy was full of ideas, inspiration, and plans.
She was never idle, and kept busy with a variety of projects even when in ill health.
She will be greatly missed.
Preceded in death by her parents, Fay and Carmel Johnstone.
She is survived by her husband, Hideaki Nishimura; son, Joel (Kazumi) Robinson and daughter, Laurel (Mikey) Henderson.
Her three grandchildren are Quinn Henderson, Maya Robinson, and Taizo Robinson.
A Vigil Service will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2015 at 7:00pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 304 S Adams Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99216.
A Memorial Mass at the same location will take place on Friday, October 2, 2015 at 10:00am.
Please visit www.HennesseyFuneralHomes.com to share your thoughts and memories with our family.