Memorials
An important part of Shin Buddhism is honoring
those men and women, now deceased, who have made an impact on the lives of
those around them. In that spirit, we offer the following tributes
and memorials.
Rev. Gyoko
Saito (1927-2001)
A Eulogy by Dr. Nobuo Haneda, Director Maida Center for Buddhism,
Berkeley, Calif. Rev. Saito was a beloved Shin minister who served many
years in Chicago, Los Angeles and for a brief period in Hawaii where he
passed away. He had a wide influence during his long ministry and will be
sorely missed.
Rev. Ruth
Tabrah (1921-2004)
Ruth Tabrah, a pillar of Hawaiian Buddhism and the World Jodo Shinshu Sangha passed away on April 8, the Buddha's birthday, peacefully after battling Parkinson's disease and other complications.
Her value as a writer/editor and mentor to Shin Buddhists past,
present and future cannot be
overstated. An irreplaceable Zenchishiki (good friend who teaches), her loss will be
felt for years -- generations -- to come.
Those who had the privilege of being in Ruth's presence recognized her as a beacon and bright star in the Buddhist Community.
Whoever encountered her spirit was never the same after, her joy and optimism were
so infectious. She truly was a great lady in every sense of the term.
The following eulogies attempt to evoke something of Ruth's spirit, though without her they are inadequate.
She is missed greatly.
*Eulogy for Ruth Tabrah
*Ruth
Milander Tabrah -- A Memorial
