Kazuko "Kay" Glogovsky (née Shiratori), 91, passed away on December 25, 2024, in Irving, Texas.
Kazuko was born on January 2, 1933, to Nikichi and Tatsumi Santo (both deceased) in Kanazawa Japan. Kazuko lived a life filled with love, faith, and devotion to her family. She was a dedicated wife and mother who found immense joy in caring for her children and sharing her deep faith in Jesus. A devout Christian, she cherished her church community and lived by the teachings of her faith, setting an example for those around her.
After marrying her husband Frank in Japan in 1955 during his service in the United States Air Force, she moved to The United States in 1957. She lived in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Texas over her lifetime.
Kazuko was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank J. Glogovsky, who passed on November 4, 1975 after a courageous battle with cancer. Together, they built a family that became the center of her world. She raised five children: Suzanne (Craig) Carson, Linda (Ruben) Valdez, Frank (Dawn, deceased) Glogovsky, Janet (Steve) Sanborn, and Christine (Evan) Kyle. Her love extended to her grandchildren—Christiana Valdez, Jonathan Valdez, Justin Valdez, Steven Sanborn, Joseph (Grace) Sanborn, Kathryn (Shane) McCarthy, and Remy (Luisa) Glogovsky—as well as to her great-granddaughter Emma. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy; she was known for attending their sporting events and cheering loudly in support of their achievements. Quite an accomplishment for a widow of almost 50 years.
A gifted gourmet cook, Kazuko delighted in hosting gatherings for family, friends, and neighbors. Her home was always filled with warmth and the aroma of delicious meals prepared with love. She enjoyed cooking not just as a necessity but as an expression of care for those she loved. We will all remember her special weekend, holiday and especially Christmas Eve gatherings. She was always happiest when we were all together. She loved having five children and lots of grandchildren to spoil.
In addition to cooking, she found joy in reading Japanese books, playing Chinese checkers, watching old classic movies, game shows and engaging in spirited games of Rummy.
Kazuko was always the first and last one on the dance floor at concerts, vacations and weddings. She loved to reminisce about the “good old days”.
Kazuko had a deep affection for animals and treated them with kindness and compassion throughout her life. Her gentle spirit extended beyond people to all living creatures she encountered.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on May 17, 2025, at Family Life Church in Waukegan, Illinois (2313 Washington Street). The service will begin at 10:00 AM and conclude at 11:00 AM. Refreshments will be served afterward in the gym from 11:00 AM to noon. Private internment will follow for immediate family.
Kazuko's legacy is one of love—love for her family, love for her faith, and love for the simple joys that made life meaningful. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her but forever remembered through the lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, you may choose to donate to Alzheimer's Association at: https://www.alz.org OR to Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at: SPCA.ORG of Texas.