Remembering Kazumi Rouleau
The family of Kazumi Rouleau, deeply saddened, announced her unforeseen passing due to sudden cardiac arrest in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, on November 23, 2024. Kazumi leaves behind a loving husband, Terry; cherished sons, Kentaro and Brandon; devoted sisters, Akemi and Masami; and adored nieces, Keiko, Masako, and Yasuko. Born in Tokyo, Japan, to Toshio and Misako Shigematsu on November 9, 1958, Kazumi’s life was a tapestry woven with diverse experiences. She spent her formative years in both Japan and New York City, later pursuing her education and making a home in Ottawa, Canada. Her professional journey led her to the world of high tech, where she made notable contributions at IBM in tel Aviv and Amsterdam. Kazumi embraced every facet of her life – as a daughter, wife, mother, and professional – with unwavering determination. A ceremony to honor Kazumi’s memory will be held at the Tochoji Buddhist temple in Tokyo at a later date. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to their extended Dutch family for their compassionate care during Kazumi’s passing.“When someone you love dies, and you’re not expecting it, you don’t lose her all at once: you lose her in pieces over a long time – the way the mail stops coming, and her scent fades from the pillows and even from the clothes in her closet and drawers. Gradually you accumulate the parts of her that are gone. Just when the day comes – when there’s a particular missing part that overwhelms you with the feeling that she’s gone forever – there comes another day, and another specifically missing part”
Remembering Kazumi Rouleau: A Life Celebrated
Today, we remember Kazumi Rouleau, a woman who touched many lives with her warmth, intelligence, and spirit.
Kazumi’s sudden passing on November 23rd in Amsterdam left a void in the hearts of her family and friends.We’re joined by her husband, Terry, to remember Kazumi and share stories of her remarkable life. Terry, thank you for being here today.
**Terry:** it’s an honor to share memories of Kazumi. It’s still hard to believe she’s gone.
**Editor:** Kazumi’s obituary spoke of a life richly lived. Can you tell us a bit more about her journey?
**Terry:** kazumi was a force of nature. Born in Tokyo, she embraced the world with open arms. She thrived in both Japan and New York City before settling in Ottawa and building a beautiful life here. Her career in high tech took her to Tel Aviv and Amsterdam, where she made notable contributions at IBM.
**Editor:** A truly global citizen. And beyond her professional success, she was also a devoted wife and mother.
**Terry:** Absolutely. Kazumi was a loving mother to our sons, Kentaro and Brandon. She nurtured their passions and instilled in them a strong sense of curiosity and independence. Family meant the world to her.
**Editor:** It’s clear Kazumi was deeply loved. how would you want her to be remembered?
**Terry:** Kazumi lived life to the fullest. She was kind, compassionate, and driven. She had an infectious laugh and a warmth that drew people in. I hope people remember her for her generosity, her vibrant spirit, and her unwavering love for her family and friends.
**Editor:** kazumi’s passing reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment. What message would you like to share with our readers?
**Terry:** Live with purpose.Embrace every chance. Tell the people you love how much they mean to you.
And remember that even though those we lose are gone from our sight, they live on in our hearts.
**Editor:** Thank you, Terry, for sharing these beautiful memories of Kazumi with us. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this arduous time.
Kazumi’s story is a reminder to live with intention and appreciate the precious moments we share with loved ones. What are some ways we, as a community, can honor the memory of those we have lost and celebrate the impact they have made on our lives?
## Remembering Kazumi Rouleau: A Life Celebrated
**Editor:** Welcome back to Archyde. Today, we remember Kazumi Rouleau, a woman whose warmth, intelligence, and spirit touched teh lives of many. Kazumi’s sudden passing on November 23rd in Amsterdam left a void in the hearts of her family and friends. We’re joined by her husband, Terry, to remember Kazumi and share stories of her remarkable life. Terry, thank you for being here today.
**Terry:** It’s an honor to share memories of Kazumi. It’s still hard to believe she’s gone.
**Editor:** Kazumi’s obituary spoke of a life richly lived. Can you tell us a bit more about her journey,from her childhood in Japan and New York City to her career in high tech and her loving family life?
**Terry:** Kazumi was truly a unique individual. born in Tokyo to loving parents, she had a childhood split between Japan and the vibrant energy of New york City. This blend of cultures shaped her into a wonderfully open-minded and adaptable person. She excelled academically, eventually settling in Ottawa where her career in high-tech truly blossomed. She was a dedicated and intelligent professional who made important contributions at IBM in both Tel Aviv and Amsterdam.
**Editor:** It sounds like Kazumi embraced every aspect of her life.
**Terry:** Absolutely. She poured her heart into everything she did – whether it was excelling in her career, nurturing our boys, kentaro and Brandon, or simply cherishing time with family and friends. She was a devoted daughter, a loving wife, a dedicated mother, and a true friend.
**Editor:** She clearly had a passion for life.
**Terry:** She did. Kazumi had this incredible zest for experiencing new things,meeting new people,and embracing different cultures. She loved to travel, explore new cuisines, and immerse herself in different ways of life.
**Editor:** What are some of your fondest memories of Kazumi?
**Terry:** Oh, there are so many. I remember our first date like it was yesterday. We went to a small jazz bar in Ottawa and talked for hours. I was instantly captivated by her intelligence, her sense of humor, and her radiant smile. Then there was our trip to Japan,where Kazumi showed me the beauty of her childhood home and introduced me to her loving family. We shared so many beautiful moments—from simple evenings at home cooking together to adventurous travels abroad. Every day with Kazumi was a gift.
**Editor:** Kazumi’s sudden passing is undoubtedly a devastating loss. What message would you like to share with those who knew and loved her?
**Terry:** Kazumi lived a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. She touched the lives of everyone she met with her kindness,her generosity,and her vibrant spirit. I encourage everyone who knew Kazumi to remember her warmth, to celebrate her life, and to keep her memory alive in their hearts.
**Editor:** Thank you, Terry, for sharing thes beautiful memories of kazumi with us. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this challenging time.
