Obituary of Hama Scheier

Hama Scheier, a bright light of love and family devotion, passed away during the early hours of May 9, 2018. At her side was her loving husband of 54 years, Arthur, her daughter Christa Rydlewski and her grandson Tyler Rydlewski. Hama is survived by her immediate family members: husband Arthur Scheier, daughter Christa Rydlewski, grandson Tyler Rydlewski, Christa's fiance Patrick Klaskow, Tyler's father Richard Rydlewski and Tyler's step mother Barbara Rydlewski. She is also survived by her relatives in Japan: brother Yuuichi Saitou, sister Joushin (Yuki) Hoshino, brother Yousuke Saitou and sister Noriko Makino. Also by many friends both near and far. One in particular, her best friend of over 60 years, Tokiko Garcia.

Hama was born in Ofuna, Japan in 1930. She worked at the U.S. Army installation at Camp Zama as a typist, and met Art while he was stationed there. They were married on August 6, 1963 and their daughter Christa was born in February 1965. Hama and Christa followed Art through 30 years of Army postings. She worked in Civil Service positions during that time and made sure that the many changes of posts and homes did not affect her ability to create a home environment for her husband and daughter that was filled with love, comfort and joy.

Hama was an excellent cook and prepared traditional Japanese dishes for all of her immediate family members. Her Sukiyaki was especially enjoyable and they eagerly awaited when she made this dish. The love she put into the meal came through to the last bite. She was devoted to her family, loved to cook, read and tend to her garden.

Art and Hama retired to St Petersburg in 1988 and resided in the Old Northeast. Her new home reflected the things that were most important to her. Photos of her daughter and grandson were prominently displayed throughout the house to mark milestones and times they all shared as a family. Hama's roles of wife, mother and grandmother defined her in a way that she was proud of and she will be missed greatly by all.