Rene Kehaulani Tsugawa of Bellevue died Saturday, August 2, 2008 at home. She was 54.

Ms. Tsugawa was born April 16, 1954 in Honolulu, Hawaii to Richard and Julia Tsugawa. She was raised in Honolulu where she graduated from Farrington High School. Following high school Rene furthered her education at Cerritos Community College where she earned her Associates of Arts Degree.

In 1977 she moved from Hawaii to Los Angeles. In 1990 she moved to Bellevue. She worked in special education in Los Angeles and in Bellevue.

In her leisure time she enjoyed needlepoint, memory photo scrap books, bingo, passionately caring for her two nieces and spending time with her family.

Survivors include her mother, Julia F. Tsugawa; brothers, Sidney, Mahi and Melvin Tsugawa; sister, Beverly Wasdo; and a host of extended family members and friends.

The family suggests remembrances to World Vision.

The family will be receiving friends from 11 a.m.-11:30 with a service following from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 28 at Calvary by the Sea Lutheran Church, 5339 Kalanianaole Hwy. in Aina Haina. A scattering of ashes at sea will follow the service.

Friends are invited to share memories and sign the family’s online guest book at www.flintofts.com.