In memory of Karyn Yamagishi.

Endowed by the Yamagishi Family, in loving memory of Karyn Yamagishi.

Karyn attended the French Immersion program at Agnes Davidson Elementary School, Gilbert Paterson Junior High, Lethbridge Collegiate Institute, and the University of Lethbridge. Her first public vocal solo with a family group at church at age 3, led to vocal lessons and numerous solos at the Kiwanis Musical Festival. She sang in choirs at First Baptist Church and all of the schools she attended. With the LCI Chamber Choir, she travelled to Europe and Japan and, with the U of L Singers, to Ireland. In the summer of 2010, she and her mother took an Arctic cruise and photography workshop.

Unable to pursue a career in singing due to chronic pain, Karyn moved to Calgary in 2007, along with Chico, her special pet and constant companion, whom she trained well, and who gave unconditional love and support. Despite many health concerns, Karyn took a special interest in the plight of the homeless, especially after serving on a church youth ministry team.

Karyn Yamagishi was born on August 1, 1983 in Lethbridge, Alberta. She suffered from chronic pain for over ten years, with medical complications leading to her unexpected death on Thursday, November 29, 2012, at the age of 29. Photo and bio from Karyn’s obituary.