Akiko W. Stokes

A Life of Harmony, Dignity, and Quiet Service

We gather today to honor the life of Akiko—a woman who blossomed through hardship, lived with profound grace, and left a legacy of love that will surround her family and friends for generations.

Early Life and Roots in Japan

Akiko was born on October 6, 1932, in Nagasaki, Japan, into a respected family that deeply prized harmony, dignity, and service. She grew up as one of seven siblings—three brothers and three sisters—in a warm home shaped by the quiet, powerful influence of her elders. From her mother and father, she learned the foundational values of restraint, poise, and the importance of maintaining family honor through one’s behavior. Her grandfather, a soft-spoken samurai warrior who wrote poems that hung in their ancestral home, was also a central figure in her childhood. His words and example reinforced the lessons of her parents, teaching her that a life well-lived was one lived for others. Even as a young girl, Akiko understood the beauty of discipline and the strength found in a gentle spirit.

A Sacrifice of Love

At the age of fifteen, Akiko faced a pivotal moment that would define her character. To protect her family’s reputation following a painful incident, she left her parents’ home and was taken in by her aunt. In a profound act of family duty and protection, her aunt formally adopted her and gave Akiko her own last name. This difficult choice was a life-altering sacrifice, showing Akiko's readiness to put the needs and stability of her family above her own identity at a very young age.

Marriage and a New Chapter

At nineteen, Akiko’s life changed forever when she met Winston Stokes, an American military man. He had walked into the shop where she worked to buy a kimono as a gift, and for both of them, it was love at first sight. Choosing to marry a non-Japanese man was a difficult path, and her family initially strongly disapproved of the union. However, her aunt—the same woman who had adopted her years before—stepped forward to support her choice, signing the necessary permission papers for the marriage. While the beginning of their journey required courage in the face of cultural barriers, Akiko's family found that Winston was a truly good man. He proved his character through his unwavering support, not only for Akiko but for her entire family, bridging the gap between their two worlds with kindness. Akiko and Winston went on to share 47 ½ years of life together, a journey that brought two children into the world, Judy and Ed.

Building a Life in America and Her Industrious Spirit

When Winston’s military assignments eventually moved the family to the United States, Akiko faced the monumental challenge of a new language and a vastly different culture. With quiet determination, she sat in the back of her children’s classrooms, listening and learning English until she was proficient enough to join her community. Once she found her footing, she did not just adapt; she thrived. Alongside supporting her family, Akiko was incredibly industrious. While Winston was in the military, she took on a job at the military base stores as a cashier and a stocker. It was during this time that Akiko suffered a severe, life-altering accident, breaking her back. The injury was so profound that she was laid up on her back in recovery for nearly an entire year. Yet, Akiko’s legendary resilience carried her through. Once recovered, she transitioned to what would be her final job, working for an engraver. There, her natural patience and precision shone. She spent her days doing incredibly meticulous, detailed engraving work on a wide variety of items.

Resilience and Mid-Life Challenges

Akiko’s strength was tested deeply in her later years. She faced the heartbreak of losing her beloved Winston to complications of diabetes when she was 66, and later, the devastating loss of her daughter, Judy. She also navigated the long-term institutionalization of her son, Ed, a burden she bore with steadfast devotion for the rest of her life.

A Life of Quiet Ritual at Fletcher Gardens

Following her working years, the true essence of Akiko’s spirit was felt most through her quiet daily rituals, many of which she lovingly shared with her community at Fletcher Gardens. She was a master of small ceremonies that made those around her feel seen, valued, and loved. Whether it was the precise brewing and sharing of tea, the folding of intricate origami birds, or the gifting of hand-crocheted creations, everything she did was handled with "patient hands." This same spirit of service led her to take an active role in the residency council. Her deep faith also guided her to volunteer her time generously at Catholic Charities, specifically at the Little Flower Assistance Center. It was during these years at Fletcher Gardens that Akiko also found a beautiful, unexpected chapter of companionship. Years after moving into the community, she met the second love of her life, Ed Inmen. She always spoke so fondly of the precious times they spent together—praying, dancing, and singing side-by-side in shared faith and love. She was beloved for her cooking, especially her fried rice and egg rolls. Her home remained a sanctuary of comforting notes, attentive listening, and lessons on how to slow down and care for one another.

Her Final Years and Transition to Bennett

In her final years, as her own health began to decline, she was surrounded by the same care she had always given others. Eventually, she reached out to her dear friends of 25 years, Donna and Jay Potter. Their daughter, Jeannine, along with her granddaughter Celena, brought Akiko into their home in Bennett, Colorado, where she was lovingly cared for and cherished for the final two and a half years of her life.

Her Lasting Legacy and Interment

Akiko passed away in Bennett, Colorado. She was predeceased by her husband, Winston Stokes; her daughter, Judy; and her granddaughter, Angie. She is survived by her son, Ed; her grandchildren, Michelle, Kathy, Michael, and John; and her eight great-grandchildren. Akiko Stokes will be interred at Newcomer Funeral Home. Her legacy lives on in the "quiet love she taught us." We remember her through her origami birds, the warmth of her kitchen, the artistry of her detailed engravings, her dedication to her community, and the grace with which she met every hardship. We continue to surround one another with the love she taught us.

In lieu of flowers, Akiko wanted donations sent to St Jude Children's Hospital or Catholic Charities, Little Flower Assistance Center, 11149 E. 14th Ave., Aurora Co 80010.