 If you missed the Celebration of Life for Colleen, it was simply beautiful. The air, the little details in the room at the Waioli Tea room was Colleen. The tea bag to the right was the favors each guests received and you bet Colleen will be thought of with each sip. If you wish to send your condolences to her daughter Ashley and family, please email Ashley here.
Thank you. |
Recently I have had to say goodbye to so
many. You can never be prepared for it and lost of words is where
I usually find myself. But, lately I have found a place within
myself to which I connect with peace. Having my little scare in
September of last year brought me to a place I've never been. So
keeping that at heart, I will assume when your time arrives,
surrendering to God is the most peaceful moment on this earth.
Every material thing and vibe falls under your feet and your last breaths are
filled with "light" and acceptance of rising above to where it all
really begins. Colleen, I remember as someone
who laughed a lot. I mean, she Ashley, Colleen's only child, well besides all her animals, was her best friend. I would watch them from afar as Ashley shares what's going on and Colleen would just listen then give her advice calmly. Colleen was such a supportive mother. Everything Ashley is, reflects who Colleen was. Ashley who is talented and very creative along with her delicious baking goods she would make during the holidays and most of her her love for her kids. As I look at Kelli her daughter, I have such faith that she will have the riches of both Colleen and Ashley and Colleen will forever be around. One strong memory was my journey with Ashley. Our goal to win the title of Miss Asian America in San Francisco was big. And at the time, I did it because I knew it would be a moment in Ashley's and her families life that they will always be recapped. I am just happy to have given the opportunity to be a part of that memory. While in San Francisco, Colleen and I roomed together at this hotel on Market Street. We kept talking and talking till we couldn't sleep no longer. So we took a walk on Market Street and continued talking and talking. You know what, it was more like, talking and laughing, and laughing and talking. She just loved listening and sharing about her life with Ashley. She was always so grateful for my support with Ashley and my friendship. Something you rarely come by. People forget these days of what "pure" friendship is and how being grateful is what it's all about. Colleen always knew how to dress, which explains why
Ashley is always well groomed and now Kelli. She loved her
business and had great stories about particular items she would show me.
She would go on buying trips to bring back jewelry and I remember buying
some for my photo shoots. She was always so generous with her
discounts!!!
And the winner is, Ashley Yamada, Miss Asian America. Those were the words at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco that made me so happy to see Ashley and her family celebrate. Colleen, you were a gentle soul and all our talks and laughs about Ashley lives on. I look at Ashley and I see you. You will always be here. I can still smell the candles burning in your home with all your fine collections. There you are with Pepper and the many souls you've touched. I know you're smiling and dancing above the stars. Love, Russell
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was this gracious, stylish, strong spirit who loved her animals,
collections of fine things and sharing them with everyone.
She
then opened Salon Du Tea on Nuuanu. The one thing I regret was
never stopping by for tea there. 
