Sachiyo Shirley Wakisaka, aged 68, died peacefully at her home in Monterey Park on July 3, 2016 after a brief battle with cancer.

Shirley was born on January 13, 1948 in Los Angeles, California as the only child to Tomozo and Ayako Iwahashi.

She grew up in Boyle Heights and attended USC before marrying Shigekazu Wakisaka on August 27, 1969. Married for 30 years, Shirley and Shigekazu raised their young family in Monterey Park and saw their sons graduate from college before Shigekazu's passing in 1999.

A hard working mom, she was an executive secretary to the president of the import/export company Marukyo for many years before making a career change to legal secretary. She spent much of her career at firms such as Shield & Smith and Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton. With her true generous spirit, she satisfied her family and friends' sweet tooths with homemade cookies and cakes. She baked her family favorites Boston Cream Trifle and Chocolate Cream Pie too many times to count. Shirley also loved to read mysteries, sew, and knit. Shirley loved animals and had a menagerie of pets throughout the years, calmly brushing away the endless trail of pet hairs that would follow her.

She is survived by her Children: Chiharu, Steve (Kathy), and David Grandchildren: Daisuke and Amy,

Funeral service will be held on Sat. July 23, 2:00 p.m. at Fukui Mortuary "Chapel in the garden" 707 E. Temple St., Los Angeles, CA, with minister of Hompa Hongwanji Buddhist Temple officiating.