Mineko Fruin, born in Tokyo, Japan on February 23, 1942, was the daughter of Shigeru and Kiyo Suzuki. She grew up with four siblings during a turbulent period in Japan’s history. After graduating from college in Tokyo, Mineko moved to Los Angeles in 1975 to further her education. She earned a degree in accounting and enjoyed a successful 20-year career in the freight forwarding industry.
In 1984, Mineko met Robert Fruin, whom she married. Together, they had one daughter, Kristin, and built a happy life in Torrance, California, where Mineko lived for the rest of her life.
She had a passion for flower arranging, gardening, baseball, Japanese television, and traveling. Mineko is survived by her husband Robert, daughter Kristin, son-in-law David, and sister Takeko. After a courageous two-year battle with cancer, Mineko passed away on January 21, 2025, in Torrance.
A graveside service for Mineko will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California 90601.
Mineko will be laid to rest in Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California 90601; Lakeview Terr Niche Wall; Gate: 1, Section: 3, Tier: B, Niche: 38.