Junkoh Harui

of Bainbridge Island, died peacefully Sunday, October 19 at his Bainbridge Island home surrounded by his family. He was 75.Born on Bainbridge Island on June 23, 1933, Junkoh grew up amidst the natural beauty of pre-war Bainbridge Gardens. Junkoh graduated from Bainbridge High School in 1951 and the University of Washington in 1955, becoming a life-long Husky fan. While in college, Junkoh met his wife, Christina. In 1958, Junkoh and Chris, opened the Island's first florist, Town and Country Florist in Winslow. As the business grew, Junkoh and Chris added a nursery and moved to a larger location which became well-known along Highway 305. In 1989, Junkoh and Chris moved the nursery to its present location, the site where Junkoh grew up, and renovating the site and renaming the business "Bainbridge Gardens." This year, Junkoh and Chris celebrated 50 years of marriage and 50 years of business on Bainbridge Island. Junkoh's love of the garden and his commitment to his customers allowed him to share the beauty of nature with generations of Bainbridge Islanders. Junkoh was known for his involvement and leadership in countless community projects and events. He is credited for inspiring many to seek their talents and follow their dreams and was respected and admired by many in the community.Junkoh is survived by his wife, Chris; children, Donna Harui, Bainbridge Island; Alex (Cynthia), Foster City, CA; Roger (Greta), Seattle; and Sandra (John Vanderzanden), Seattle; sister, Terry Marlatt, Reno, NV; and brothers Norio, Seattle; Hiro (Kumiko), Wenatchee; and five grandchildren, Sam and Leah Bouillon, Ella and Alise Vanderzanden, and Nolan Harui.Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend the Celebration of Life Memorial on Saturday, November 8, 2008 at 2:00 PM at Sakai Intermediate School, 9343 Sportsman Club Road on Bainbridge Island. A reception will follow.Private interment will take place at Port Blakely Cemetery on Bainbridge Island. Junkoh's obituary will also appear in the Bainbridge Review and Kitsap Sun. Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home.