Obituary of Masako Stoehrer

Masako Stoehrer, born on January 15, 1945, in Ishigaki, Japan, passed away on August 26, 2023, at the Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, VA. Her life was a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the depth of a mother's love, and the sacrifices one makes for family.

Although Masako was known for her quiet and reserved nature, the love she exuded was unmistakable and profound. Many who knew her felt an innate maternal warmth, leading her to be cherished as a mother figure by those beyond her immediate family. Her legacy of love will be an enduring memory for all who were touched by it.

Born and raised amidst the scenic beauty of Ishigaki, Masako showed a remarkable flair for the English language. Following her high school graduation this prowess opened new doors, leading her to relocate to Okinawa, Japan. Here, she began a fulfilling role with the USO, where she met the love of her life, Lt. Col. Frank August Stoehrer. Together, they celebrated the birth of their first son, Frank Emile Stoehrer, in Japan. In 1976, the couple took a significant leap, moving to the USA, embracing its challenges and opportunities. Six years later, they welcomed their second son, Mark August Stoehrer, into their lives.

In 1988, following the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Masako confronted a crossroad. With two young children in tow, she could either return to Japan, drawing solace and support from her close-knit family, or face the challenges of the USA, armed with limited support, but the promise of brighter futures for her sons. In a testament to her indomitable spirit and boundless love, Masako chose the challenging path. Embracing her new homeland, she became a naturalized American citizen and, as a single mother, raised both her sons with endless love, sacrifice, and care.

Her resilience was further evident when she battled and overcame an Aortic Dissection, a condition with a notably low survival rate, and twice bravely faced breast cancer. A testament to her determination was her deep-seated desire to meet her only grandchild, Akira Stoehrer, born on September 19, 2022. His name, a tribute to his Japanese heritage, bears the love and legacy of his grandmother. While their time together was brief, the love she showered upon him was boundless, eternal in the memories of those who bore witness. Her final days, after a medical procedure, were spent in the cherished company of this new life.

A lifetime dog lover, Masako shared an unparalleled bond with her grand-dog, Scarlett. The depth of this bond is evident even now, as Scarlett lingers in the room where Masako last stayed, yearning for just one more treat and one more loving pat from the grandmother she adored above all.

Masako's departure from this world came due to complications following a procedure to treat her damaged aorta — a Ruptured Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm. Yet, her legacy is one of unwavering strength and indomitable spirit.

Masako is survived by her devoted son, Mark Stoehrer and his wife, Lesley Stoehrer; cherished grandson, Akira Stoehrer; and brother, Seiko Takaesu. She now finds peace reuniting with her beloved husband, Frank August Stoehrer; son, Frank Emile Stoehrer; and brother, Masaki Takaesu. Her final resting place will be alongside her husband at the Arlington National Cemetery, where she will be eternally beside her late husband, bringing their love story full circle.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at Adams-Green Funeral Home, 721 Elden St., Herndon, Virginia, to celebrate the indelible legacy Masako has left behind. From 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm, attendees are welcomed to visit with Masako one final time. Funeral services will commence immediately following this visitation at 3:00 pm.

In remembering Masako, we are reminded of the vastness of human resilience, the depth of maternal love, and the incredible bonds that transcend life's challenges.