Fumiko Chikami
We are all visitors on the Earth.
Obituary
On 24th June 2025, Fumiko, loving Mother of Three, delightful Nana to nine grandchildren, supportive wife and confidant to John, a great inspiration and Spiritual Teacher and Leader to many across continents, passed away peacefully leaving this Earth.
For those of you that knew her, you’d know her tenacious Spirit, her attention to detail, her ever lasting determination, and her committed Spiritual path towards creating a better world for us all.
Fumiko’s Light reached far and wide across the Earth, touched and inspired many through her 75 years around the sun. Her mission was clear, her influence was strong, and she has carved a new path and new way, toward a New World ready to embody a new level of Consciousness. Her lasting impressions and self less contributions will be enjoyed by many to come, her tireless work and efforts will never be forgotten.
May her tenacious perseverance live on in her beautiful children and grandchildren, her wonderful family, students and colleagues, all those she taught, touched and inspired.
May the bright flame of Fumiko continue to burn through us all.
May we like her, have the courage to keep the flame alive and continue on her work, spreading Light and warmth, creating a new level of consciousness for all of Humanity and the generations to come.
Fumiko’s physical presence, her love of Nature, her kindness, generosity, her compassionate understanding and her loving smile will surely be missed, but her Spirit lives on. A great woman, daughter, mother, grandmother, wife, sister and teacher.
May her legacy left on Earth, never die.
Tribute
Mother to Yulika, Eamonn, Tistrya
Grandmother to nine children
Creator of biography work in Japan
Co-saviour of Emerson College
Beloved wife, best friend, and an anthroposophical colleague to John.
Fumiko, known to many people throughout the world, moved frequently between Britain and Japan. She was a doer, a will person, a true Michaelic soul.
Fumiko’s unexpected death on the morning of St John’s Day 2025 was a shock to family, friends, colleagues. The decisive cause of death, an acute stroke – painless, immediate, no lingering – was typical. She thought she had a cold. Her last words before I left for an international anthroposophic psychotherapy conference at Emerson College were: ‘I won’t come down to breakfast today because I think I have a cold, and I don’t want Ad and Henriette* to catch it – please run a bath for me’. She loved baths. It was the nearest to the Japanese onsen or hot spring which she adored. She regarded it as a medicine and that is probably what she was thinking. However, she ‘called me back’ since I was unexpectedly able to briefly leave the conference just over three hours later only to find her lying in the bath. Although I contacted emergency services there was little doubt that she had moved on to the spiritual world.
Fumiko was born in Toyotsu in the Buddhist and Shinto culture of Japan. She was fully aware of the importance of Christianity. She wrote that‘through remembering the tragic history of Nagasaki, I found the Christ within me. He has brought Love and the form for Healing to my heart as He does to all those who suffer’. She was descended from a Samurai family on her father’s side and anyone who knew her experienced her Samurai nature which was firm but gentle. She was ‘uncompromising, unsentimental .... a warrior for the truth’ as someone said. But she also put the needs of others before herself and had loved God-created nature and in particular flowers ever since her childhood whilst having no illusions about the painful times humanity is living through.
John Lees
* Ad and Henriette were long standing friends and colleagues who knew both of us very well and were staying with us for the duration of the conference
Gallery
Thoughts & Memories
Please share your Memories or last words for Fumiko
July 15, 2025
Dear Fumiko
May your journey will be filled with light and rejoicing with others. I send you my light from Earth.
Love, Hiromi
May your journey will be filled with light and rejoicing with others. I send you my light from Earth.
Love, Hiromi
July 15, 2025
My connection with Fumiko started in 2010, when Emerson College was facing an existential crisis which appeared terminal: the then trustees had decided the charity would have to go into liquidation, and a closing ceremony was held with deep sadness and regret. However, at the last moment three courageous individuals – Fumiko, her husband John and the late Robert Lord – came forward to pull things back from the brink and enable the College to continue its work and existence. The three of them raised gifts and loans, put in funds of their own, paid off the large bank debt, took over as trustees and directors, and prevented the closure. Without this Michaelic deed, there would today be no Emerson College to go through its current transition into a new future.
Fumiko took on the Operations Director role in an extremely difficult situation, with overstretched resources, tense relationships, physical constraints and enormous uncertainty. Her personal resilience, commitment and determination shone through the stormy events of the next few years. When new and additional trustees were appointed, she accepted with grace the need to pass on her management and governance roles. She continued to support the College by organising 2 Worldwide Biography Conferences each with more than 100 participants from 10 European nations, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, South Africa and USA. She also contributed with John to the development of the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy programme which continues at Emerson.
Her sudden death on St John’s day, during the International Federation of Anthroposophical Psychotherapy Associations conference, came as a huge shock to us all. She will be remembered with deep gratitude and respect by everyone who knew her and the vital contribution she made to Emerson College in its hour of strongest need.
Fumiko took on the Operations Director role in an extremely difficult situation, with overstretched resources, tense relationships, physical constraints and enormous uncertainty. Her personal resilience, commitment and determination shone through the stormy events of the next few years. When new and additional trustees were appointed, she accepted with grace the need to pass on her management and governance roles. She continued to support the College by organising 2 Worldwide Biography Conferences each with more than 100 participants from 10 European nations, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, South Africa and USA. She also contributed with John to the development of the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy programme which continues at Emerson.
Her sudden death on St John’s day, during the International Federation of Anthroposophical Psychotherapy Associations conference, came as a huge shock to us all. She will be remembered with deep gratitude and respect by everyone who knew her and the vital contribution she made to Emerson College in its hour of strongest need.
July 15, 2025
My connection with Fumiko started in 2010, when Emerson College was facing an existential crisis which appeared terminal: the then trustees had decided the charity would have to go into liquidation, and a closing ceremony was held with deep sadness and regret. However, at the last moment three courageous individuals – Fumiko, her husband John and the late Robert Lord – came forward to pull things back from the brink and enable the College to continue its work and existence. The three of them raised gifts and loans, put in funds of their own, paid off the large bank debt, took over as trustees and directors, and prevented the closure. Without this Michaelic deed, there would today be no Emerson College to go through its current transition into a new future.
Fumiko took on the Operations Director role in an extremely difficult situation, with overstretched resources, tense relationships, physical constraints and enormous uncertainty. Her personal resilience, commitment and determination shone through the stormy events of the next few years. When new and additional trustees were appointed, she accepted with grace the need to pass on her management and governance roles. She continued to support the College by organising 2 Worldwide Biography Conferences each with more than 100 participants from 10 European nations, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, South Africa and USA. She also contributed with John to the development of the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy programme which continues at Emerson.
Her sudden death on St John’s day, during the International Federation of Anthroposophical Psychotherapy Associations conference, came as a huge shock to us all. She will be remembered with deep gratitude and respect by everyone who knew her and the vital contribution she made to Emerson College in its hour of strongest need.
Fumiko took on the Operations Director role in an extremely difficult situation, with overstretched resources, tense relationships, physical constraints and enormous uncertainty. Her personal resilience, commitment and determination shone through the stormy events of the next few years. When new and additional trustees were appointed, she accepted with grace the need to pass on her management and governance roles. She continued to support the College by organising 2 Worldwide Biography Conferences each with more than 100 participants from 10 European nations, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, South Africa and USA. She also contributed with John to the development of the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy programme which continues at Emerson.
Her sudden death on St John’s day, during the International Federation of Anthroposophical Psychotherapy Associations conference, came as a huge shock to us all. She will be remembered with deep gratitude and respect by everyone who knew her and the vital contribution she made to Emerson College in its hour of strongest need.
July 15, 2025
My connection with Fumiko started in 2010, when Emerson College was facing an existential crisis which appeared terminal: the then trustees had decided the charity would have to go into liquidation, and a closing ceremony was held with deep sadness and regret. However, at the last moment three courageous individuals – Fumiko, her husband John and the late Robert Lord – came forward to pull things back from the brink and enable the College to continue its work and existence. The three of them raised gifts and loans, put in funds of their own, paid off the large bank debt, took over as trustees and directors, and prevented the closure. Without this Michaelic deed, there would today be no Emerson College to go through its current transition into a new future.
Fumiko took on the Operations Director role in an extremely difficult situation, with overstretched resources, tense relationships, physical constraints and enormous uncertainty. Her personal resilience, commitment and determination shone through the stormy events of the next few years. When new and additional trustees were appointed, she accepted with grace the need to pass on her management and governance roles. She continued to support the College by organising 2 Worldwide Biography Conferences each with more than 100 participants from 10 European nations, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, South Africa and USA. She also contributed with John to the development of the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy programme which continues at Emerson.
Her sudden death on St John’s day, during the International Federation of Anthroposophical Psychotherapy Associations conference, came as a huge shock to us all. She will be remembered with deep gratitude and respect by everyone who knew her and the vital contribution she made to Emerson College in its hour of strongest need.
Fumiko took on the Operations Director role in an extremely difficult situation, with overstretched resources, tense relationships, physical constraints and enormous uncertainty. Her personal resilience, commitment and determination shone through the stormy events of the next few years. When new and additional trustees were appointed, she accepted with grace the need to pass on her management and governance roles. She continued to support the College by organising 2 Worldwide Biography Conferences each with more than 100 participants from 10 European nations, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Philippines, Russia, South Africa and USA. She also contributed with John to the development of the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy programme which continues at Emerson.
Her sudden death on St John’s day, during the International Federation of Anthroposophical Psychotherapy Associations conference, came as a huge shock to us all. She will be remembered with deep gratitude and respect by everyone who knew her and the vital contribution she made to Emerson College in its hour of strongest need.
July 15, 2025
Dear Fumiko, I am sorry for my sadness and thank you very much for all the joy we shared!
Your friendship, your heartfelt complicity, your sensitive and compassionate way of being and working has made our world more beautiful.
Thank you, Cristina Oliveira (D'Agostino)
Your friendship, your heartfelt complicity, your sensitive and compassionate way of being and working has made our world more beautiful.
Thank you, Cristina Oliveira (D'Agostino)
July 15, 2025
Dear Fumiko,
It was a great pleasure meeting you in Brazil and on my travels to England.
Your cheerful and firm manner, always generous, brought us much joy and set an example of a strong and kind woman.
A true samurai soul!
May you watch over our paths, your family, and John.
Thank you so much for your teachings and your kindness.
Love
It was a great pleasure meeting you in Brazil and on my travels to England.
Your cheerful and firm manner, always generous, brought us much joy and set an example of a strong and kind woman.
A true samurai soul!
May you watch over our paths, your family, and John.
Thank you so much for your teachings and your kindness.
Love
July 14, 2025
I will always be deeply grateful for Fumiko’s friendship and colleagueship.
Her love, care, kindness, wisdom and determination shone through during the most challenging, along with the most relaxing, times. From taking up the call to help keep Emerson safe for generations to come, to leaping joyfully into a refreshing lake following a sauna in Finland, Fumiko seemed to savour every moment. Memories that will remain in my heart for ever include: her unwavering endeavours for a good outcome; her joy; her understanding; compassion; presence and deep connection to her fellow earthly travellers; to the nature surrounding her and to the spiritual realms.
Our first and last meetings in person were at Worldwide Biography Conferences (of course!): from the first Emerson Biography conference (in 1999?) to the latest one in November 2024 in Japan, Fumiko’s beautiful country of origin. There, Fumiko looked out for us all, as usual, ensuring that our stay was precious and meaningful.
In the intervening years, we have had many other meetings during, and in preparation for the Biography conferences; the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy trainings; other stays at Emerson and on day trips to Forest Row. My particularly cherished memories are of conversations in Fumiko and John’s beautiful home and very special garden, designed by Fumiko. Here, I was able to experience another aspect to Fumiko’s inner and outer beauty, reflected in her attention to form and flow; sensitivity to ‘the space in between’ and her attunement to life around her. The vegetables she grew were one of the many testaments to her nurturing and care.
In Japan and more recently in Forest Row, I have been able to meet some of Fumiko’s adult children and grandchildren who have their own special gifts and qualities, I would imagine due, at least in part, to Fumiko’s love and care. My heart goes out to John and to you all.
Dear Fumiko, may you be blessed during the next stages of your journey.
Her love, care, kindness, wisdom and determination shone through during the most challenging, along with the most relaxing, times. From taking up the call to help keep Emerson safe for generations to come, to leaping joyfully into a refreshing lake following a sauna in Finland, Fumiko seemed to savour every moment. Memories that will remain in my heart for ever include: her unwavering endeavours for a good outcome; her joy; her understanding; compassion; presence and deep connection to her fellow earthly travellers; to the nature surrounding her and to the spiritual realms.
Our first and last meetings in person were at Worldwide Biography Conferences (of course!): from the first Emerson Biography conference (in 1999?) to the latest one in November 2024 in Japan, Fumiko’s beautiful country of origin. There, Fumiko looked out for us all, as usual, ensuring that our stay was precious and meaningful.
In the intervening years, we have had many other meetings during, and in preparation for the Biography conferences; the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy trainings; other stays at Emerson and on day trips to Forest Row. My particularly cherished memories are of conversations in Fumiko and John’s beautiful home and very special garden, designed by Fumiko. Here, I was able to experience another aspect to Fumiko’s inner and outer beauty, reflected in her attention to form and flow; sensitivity to ‘the space in between’ and her attunement to life around her. The vegetables she grew were one of the many testaments to her nurturing and care.
In Japan and more recently in Forest Row, I have been able to meet some of Fumiko’s adult children and grandchildren who have their own special gifts and qualities, I would imagine due, at least in part, to Fumiko’s love and care. My heart goes out to John and to you all.
Dear Fumiko, may you be blessed during the next stages of your journey.
July 14, 2025
I will always be deeply grateful for Fumiko’s friendship and colleagueship.
Her love, care, kindness, wisdom and determination shone through during the most challenging, along with the most relaxing, times. From taking up the call to help keep Emerson safe for generations to come, to leaping joyfully into a refreshing lake following a sauna in Finland, Fumiko seemed to savour every moment. Memories that will remain in my heart for ever include: her unwavering endeavours for a good outcome; her joy; her understanding; compassion; presence and deep connection to her fellow earthly travellers; to the nature surrounding her and to the spiritual realms.
Our first and last meetings in person were at Worldwide Biography Conferences (of course!): from the first Emerson Biography conference (in 1999?) to the latest one in November 2024 in Japan, Fumiko’s beautiful country of origin. There, Fumiko looked out for us all, as usual, ensuring that our stay was precious and meaningful.
In the intervening years, we have had many other meetings during, and in preparation for the Biography conferences; the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy trainings; other stays at Emerson and on day trips to Forest Row. My particularly cherished memories are of conversations in Fumiko and John’s beautiful home and very special garden, designed by Fumiko. Here, I was able to experience another aspect to Fumiko’s inner and outer beauty, reflected in her attention to form and flow; sensitivity to ‘the space in between’ and her attunement to life around her. The delicious vegetables she grew were one of the many testaments to her nurturing and care.
In Japan and more recently in Forest Row, I have been able to meet some of Fumiko’s adult children and grandchildren who have their own special gifts and qualities that they are bringing to the world. The fruits of Fumiko's warmth and tenderness continues through the generations. My heart goes out to John and to you all.
Dear Fumiko, may you be blessed during the next stages of your journey.
Her love, care, kindness, wisdom and determination shone through during the most challenging, along with the most relaxing, times. From taking up the call to help keep Emerson safe for generations to come, to leaping joyfully into a refreshing lake following a sauna in Finland, Fumiko seemed to savour every moment. Memories that will remain in my heart for ever include: her unwavering endeavours for a good outcome; her joy; her understanding; compassion; presence and deep connection to her fellow earthly travellers; to the nature surrounding her and to the spiritual realms.
Our first and last meetings in person were at Worldwide Biography Conferences (of course!): from the first Emerson Biography conference (in 1999?) to the latest one in November 2024 in Japan, Fumiko’s beautiful country of origin. There, Fumiko looked out for us all, as usual, ensuring that our stay was precious and meaningful.
In the intervening years, we have had many other meetings during, and in preparation for the Biography conferences; the Anthroposophic Psychotherapy trainings; other stays at Emerson and on day trips to Forest Row. My particularly cherished memories are of conversations in Fumiko and John’s beautiful home and very special garden, designed by Fumiko. Here, I was able to experience another aspect to Fumiko’s inner and outer beauty, reflected in her attention to form and flow; sensitivity to ‘the space in between’ and her attunement to life around her. The delicious vegetables she grew were one of the many testaments to her nurturing and care.
In Japan and more recently in Forest Row, I have been able to meet some of Fumiko’s adult children and grandchildren who have their own special gifts and qualities that they are bringing to the world. The fruits of Fumiko's warmth and tenderness continues through the generations. My heart goes out to John and to you all.
Dear Fumiko, may you be blessed during the next stages of your journey.
July 14, 2025
Dear Fumiko,
We stand in awe, with a heart full of gratitude, for what you have given to the world, to John, and to the both of us.
For more than 21 years we have shared our lives.
You stayed with us in the Netherlands, and we stayed with you at Forest Row. Your hospitality was a gracious, dedicated blessing, with the scent of rose petals and precious dedication. You were always caring for what one could possibly need, even before such a need was spoken. Miraculously you knew....
In that sense, you have been a shining Light from the Eastern culture, so sensitive to others, so embedded in that circumferential "I", always aware of the needs and wishes and inner worlds of your fellow men.
May your gifts from that Far East radiate into the hearts of the Far West, where individuals sometimes lost the beauty of that circumferential "I", of that Light and Love that was always around you, shining upon others. Thank you Fumiko!
Henriette and Ad.
We stand in awe, with a heart full of gratitude, for what you have given to the world, to John, and to the both of us.
For more than 21 years we have shared our lives.
You stayed with us in the Netherlands, and we stayed with you at Forest Row. Your hospitality was a gracious, dedicated blessing, with the scent of rose petals and precious dedication. You were always caring for what one could possibly need, even before such a need was spoken. Miraculously you knew....
In that sense, you have been a shining Light from the Eastern culture, so sensitive to others, so embedded in that circumferential "I", always aware of the needs and wishes and inner worlds of your fellow men.
May your gifts from that Far East radiate into the hearts of the Far West, where individuals sometimes lost the beauty of that circumferential "I", of that Light and Love that was always around you, shining upon others. Thank you Fumiko!
Henriette and Ad.
July 14, 2025
Dear Fumiko,
I first met you as a child, through the warm circle of my parents.
Many years passed, and then at Emerson in 2023, our paths crossed again.
Back then, I was delighted to greet you in the few words of Japanese I had carried since childhood.
And I was grateful to do so once more, this time with Anthroposophy in my heart,
as if those two languages, Japanese and Anthroposophy, found a way to speak together through me.
I would like to say again the words I said at Emerson, not so long ago:
We thank you for your life on earth
for the life you shared with John,
for all that you gave to the IFAPA trainings, and to the life of Emerson College.
We thank you for the light you brought into so many lives.
May you find your true home in the spiritual world.
And may the light you carried guide you now, as it once guided us.
I first met you as a child, through the warm circle of my parents.
Many years passed, and then at Emerson in 2023, our paths crossed again.
Back then, I was delighted to greet you in the few words of Japanese I had carried since childhood.
And I was grateful to do so once more, this time with Anthroposophy in my heart,
as if those two languages, Japanese and Anthroposophy, found a way to speak together through me.
I would like to say again the words I said at Emerson, not so long ago:
We thank you for your life on earth
for the life you shared with John,
for all that you gave to the IFAPA trainings, and to the life of Emerson College.
We thank you for the light you brought into so many lives.
May you find your true home in the spiritual world.
And may the light you carried guide you now, as it once guided us.
July 14, 2025
Dear Fumiko,
Although I did not know you well, I recognise you as a co-saviour of Emerson, and hold you in deep regard and with tremendous gratitude for this selfless and determined work. I am sure the angels and elementals and all spiritual beings, (as well as the people!) that are part of Emerson give you huge honour and support at this tender time. With love and courage and thanks to you as you begin the work you have already studied so deeply, which is the review of your life. With every blessing to John and all your beloveds who you have left for a while here on Earth. Thank you Fumiko.
Annie Blampied-Radojčin
Although I did not know you well, I recognise you as a co-saviour of Emerson, and hold you in deep regard and with tremendous gratitude for this selfless and determined work. I am sure the angels and elementals and all spiritual beings, (as well as the people!) that are part of Emerson give you huge honour and support at this tender time. With love and courage and thanks to you as you begin the work you have already studied so deeply, which is the review of your life. With every blessing to John and all your beloveds who you have left for a while here on Earth. Thank you Fumiko.
Annie Blampied-Radojčin
July 14, 2025
Dear Fumiko,
Although I did not know you well, I recognise you as a co-saviour of Emerson, and hold you in deep regard and with tremendous gratitude for this selfless and determined work. I am sure the angels and elementals and all spiritual beings, (as well as the people!) that are part of Emerson give you huge honour and support at this tender time. With love and courage and thanks to you as you begin the work you have already studied so deeply, which is the review of your life. With every blessing to John and all your beloveds who you have left for a while here on Earth. Thank you Fumiko.
Annie Blampied-Radojčin
Although I did not know you well, I recognise you as a co-saviour of Emerson, and hold you in deep regard and with tremendous gratitude for this selfless and determined work. I am sure the angels and elementals and all spiritual beings, (as well as the people!) that are part of Emerson give you huge honour and support at this tender time. With love and courage and thanks to you as you begin the work you have already studied so deeply, which is the review of your life. With every blessing to John and all your beloveds who you have left for a while here on Earth. Thank you Fumiko.
Annie Blampied-Radojčin
July 14, 2025
Dear Fumiko,
Although I did not know you well, I recognise you as a co-saviour of Emerson, and hold you in deep regard and with tremendous gratitude for this selfless and determined work. I am sure the angels and elementals and all spiritual beings, (as well as the people!) that are part of Emerson give you huge honour and support at this tender time. With love and courage and thanks to you as you begin the work you have already studied so deeply, which is the review of your life. With every blessing to John and all your beloveds who you have left for a while here on Earth. Thank you Fumiko.
Annie Blampied-Radojčin
Although I did not know you well, I recognise you as a co-saviour of Emerson, and hold you in deep regard and with tremendous gratitude for this selfless and determined work. I am sure the angels and elementals and all spiritual beings, (as well as the people!) that are part of Emerson give you huge honour and support at this tender time. With love and courage and thanks to you as you begin the work you have already studied so deeply, which is the review of your life. With every blessing to John and all your beloveds who you have left for a while here on Earth. Thank you Fumiko.
Annie Blampied-Radojčin
July 13, 2025
Dear Fumiko-
Your bold, generous and wise spirit will live on in the deeds you did and the hearts you touched.
We will miss you and are grateful for all you brought to us in the form of love in action.
My your ongoing guidance from the spiritual worlds give us all the strength, clarity and courage you lived for our future work here on Earth.
Love and blessings
Your bold, generous and wise spirit will live on in the deeds you did and the hearts you touched.
We will miss you and are grateful for all you brought to us in the form of love in action.
My your ongoing guidance from the spiritual worlds give us all the strength, clarity and courage you lived for our future work here on Earth.
Love and blessings
July 13, 2025
Dear Fumiko, what a privilege to have met you, and worked with you during the IFAPA Train the Trainers 2023.
Your smile - radiating.
Your determination - unforgettable.
I have been reading the following verse by Rudolf Steiner, with you in mind:
"My love by woven as an offering
into the sheaths which now surround you,
cooling all heat,
warming all coldness.
Do thou live upwards
borne by Love,
endowed with Light."
Your smile - radiating.
Your determination - unforgettable.
I have been reading the following verse by Rudolf Steiner, with you in mind:
"My love by woven as an offering
into the sheaths which now surround you,
cooling all heat,
warming all coldness.
Do thou live upwards
borne by Love,
endowed with Light."
July 13, 2025
Dear Fumiko, what a privilege to have met you, and worked with you during the IFAPA Train the Trainers 2023.
Your smile - radiating.
Your determination - unforgettable.
I have been reading the following verse by Rudolf Steiner, with you in mind:
"My love by woven as n offering
into the sheaths which now surround you,
cooling all heat,
warming all coldness.
Do thou live upwards
borne by Love,
endowed with Light."
Your smile - radiating.
Your determination - unforgettable.
I have been reading the following verse by Rudolf Steiner, with you in mind:
"My love by woven as n offering
into the sheaths which now surround you,
cooling all heat,
warming all coldness.
Do thou live upwards
borne by Love,
endowed with Light."
July 13, 2025
In Memory of Fumiko
She passed not in winter, but when the world burned bright,
Three days and a half from the sun’s golden height.
When breath stood still and fire held the air,
She stepped through the veil and left silence there.
She bore not a crown, but the grace of the wise,
The light in her hands, and the truth in her eyes.
She moved through this world with the hush of the dove,
A woman of strength, and of mercy, and love.
She went on the day that the Baptist once knew,
When the sun begins turning, and the sky breathes through.
She did not retreat — she arose, she became,
A worker in spirit, in the Christ-light’s name.
Not gone — never gone — she lives in the flame
That stirs when we whisper the love in her name.
She walks in the word, in the will, in the deed,
Wherever there’s sorrow, wherever there’s need.
And you who still walk in the weight of the day,
Know she walks with you, just half a breath away.
Her hands are in yours when you carry the light —
She passed, not in shadow,
but through a gate of Light.
She passed not in winter, but when the world burned bright,
Three days and a half from the sun’s golden height.
When breath stood still and fire held the air,
She stepped through the veil and left silence there.
She bore not a crown, but the grace of the wise,
The light in her hands, and the truth in her eyes.
She moved through this world with the hush of the dove,
A woman of strength, and of mercy, and love.
She went on the day that the Baptist once knew,
When the sun begins turning, and the sky breathes through.
She did not retreat — she arose, she became,
A worker in spirit, in the Christ-light’s name.
Not gone — never gone — she lives in the flame
That stirs when we whisper the love in her name.
She walks in the word, in the will, in the deed,
Wherever there’s sorrow, wherever there’s need.
And you who still walk in the weight of the day,
Know she walks with you, just half a breath away.
Her hands are in yours when you carry the light —
She passed, not in shadow,
but through a gate of Light.
July 13, 2025
I first met Fumiko in 2000 when she was our mentor for our biographical group. My father had been in Burma in WW11 and Fumiko's father had fought on the other side. We spent many hours together comparing notes, feelings and memories of our childhoods. It was a precious gift for me.
When our daughter Charlie went to work in Japan for 4 years it was quite a challenge for my family. Fumiko said "I think she is doing the work for your father" which I carried with me for the next 4 years.
Charlie was in the middle of the Japanese earthquake. Fumiko was the first person to contact me to offer help.
I could never have imagined that I would have been given the special gift of sharing all of this with such a wise and generous friend.
I had not seen Fumiko so much in recent years but her friendship was very special for me in this life and I'm sure for evermore.
RIP Fumiko
When our daughter Charlie went to work in Japan for 4 years it was quite a challenge for my family. Fumiko said "I think she is doing the work for your father" which I carried with me for the next 4 years.
Charlie was in the middle of the Japanese earthquake. Fumiko was the first person to contact me to offer help.
I could never have imagined that I would have been given the special gift of sharing all of this with such a wise and generous friend.
I had not seen Fumiko so much in recent years but her friendship was very special for me in this life and I'm sure for evermore.
RIP Fumiko
July 12, 2025
Dear Fumiko, I met you when we were fellow students on the Biographical Counselling training in 1997. I was happy to be your co-counsellor and it was a privilege to accompany you on your journey of self discovery. I was impressed by your kindness and determination as well as the reiki healing you gave me for a sprained ankle! I am sure the world is a better place because you were in it and I know you are not far away from us even now. May the light always accompany you on your journey, just as your light accompanied us when you were here.
July 12, 2025
Dear Fumiko,
You inspired me many times after I met you. Your eye for detail and impecable taste and your selfless service to whatever was needed at the moment were a few of your qualities which I experienced and was touched by. I also experienced your sense of humour and capacity for joy. I am so glad I met you.
Lucila
You inspired me many times after I met you. Your eye for detail and impecable taste and your selfless service to whatever was needed at the moment were a few of your qualities which I experienced and was touched by. I also experienced your sense of humour and capacity for joy. I am so glad I met you.
Lucila
July 12, 2025
Dear Fumiko
You have been so welcoming of life that I see you full of smiles, so that your photo is completely a true record of how you were.
There was an intention between us to meet again, but sadly that has not happened. But I have been speaking a poem by P.B.Shelley every day for you since hearing of your sudden death. Here it is:
My soul is an enchanted boat
Which like a sleeping swan doth float
Upon the silver wings of thy sweet singing,
And thine doth, like an angel, sit
Beside the helm conducting it,
Whilst all the winds with melody are ringing;
.It seems to float ever, for ever
Upon that many-winding river
Between mountains, woods, abysses,
A paradise of wildernesses!
Till, like one in slumber bound,
Borne to the ocean I float down, around,
Into a sea profound,
Of ever-spreading sound.
You have been so welcoming of life that I see you full of smiles, so that your photo is completely a true record of how you were.
There was an intention between us to meet again, but sadly that has not happened. But I have been speaking a poem by P.B.Shelley every day for you since hearing of your sudden death. Here it is:
My soul is an enchanted boat
Which like a sleeping swan doth float
Upon the silver wings of thy sweet singing,
And thine doth, like an angel, sit
Beside the helm conducting it,
Whilst all the winds with melody are ringing;
.It seems to float ever, for ever
Upon that many-winding river
Between mountains, woods, abysses,
A paradise of wildernesses!
Till, like one in slumber bound,
Borne to the ocean I float down, around,
Into a sea profound,
Of ever-spreading sound.
July 12, 2025
Whenever I met Fumiko she was always so
warm and welcoming. I know she gave much of herself in helping others and in many quiet, generous ways she touched people’s lives. I will also always remember her beautiful garden – so carefully tended, full of life and colour, a place of calm and quiet joy. It felt like a reflection of her own care and presence in the world. She is already deeply missed.
warm and welcoming. I know she gave much of herself in helping others and in many quiet, generous ways she touched people’s lives. I will also always remember her beautiful garden – so carefully tended, full of life and colour, a place of calm and quiet joy. It felt like a reflection of her own care and presence in the world. She is already deeply missed.
July 11, 2025
Dedicated to Fumiko
You are a guest on the earth, a wayfarer.
Your true essence resides in the worlds of spirit.
You live there and only from time to time
climb down onto the earth
to undertake new deeds for a short while.
So turn your gaze around
and look down on the earth from above.
Then you will find the right relationship to her.
The human being is from the worlds of spirit,
and creates his life in freedom here on earth!
Think on this in all your sufferings and never let
your being be ensnared by earthly existence!
You came as a guest, and will travel on.
Here you have no permanent place in which to stay.
In the earliest morning human souls are weaving
above bush and tree, freeing themselves from matter and gravity,
floating easily on the bright ether towards the heavens.
Souls are ceaselessly climbing upwards to the stars,
sinking down to the earth to incarnate.
Human souls journey to and fro continually
between earth and heaven.
And above all this journeying between earth and heaven,
above all earthly suffering, brightly shines your star:
I AM !
These words by Gerhard Reisch from "A Book of the Dead" resounding on Friday 4th July 2025 in the North Atelier of the Goetheanum at the opening of our meeting of International Trainers Forum ITF representing Professional Biography Trainings worldwide in the General Anthroposophical Section of the School of Spiritual Science. Each colleague offered their respect and honouring of Fumiko, who served in our collective endeavour since its inception in 2003 with her especial integrity of consciousness soul.
We Salute you Fumiko and say Farewell ...
ITF Meeting Goetheanum photo 6th July 2025 gathered around the sculpture
"Space of Warmth" dedicated to Worldwide Biography Movement
Standing left to right: Yuko Hibara (JP), Gemma Priess (DE), Paola Forasacco (IT), Paula Boon( NL), Claudiu Pănculescu (RO), Karen Armbruster (ES), Christopher Bee (UK), Vera G. Klein (NL), Elida Quintas (AR), Amparo del Moral (BR), Ronaldo Perlatto (BR), Anna Romanova (RU), Philip Jacobsen (CH), Elisabeth Burkart (DE). Sitting left to right: Joop Grün (CH), Valerin Gorgoshidze (GE), Damiana Comune (AR), Kristy ZhouRi (CN), Patricia Rubano (US), Yael Armony (IL), Antje-Solveigh Streit (CH)
You are a guest on the earth, a wayfarer.
Your true essence resides in the worlds of spirit.
You live there and only from time to time
climb down onto the earth
to undertake new deeds for a short while.
So turn your gaze around
and look down on the earth from above.
Then you will find the right relationship to her.
The human being is from the worlds of spirit,
and creates his life in freedom here on earth!
Think on this in all your sufferings and never let
your being be ensnared by earthly existence!
You came as a guest, and will travel on.
Here you have no permanent place in which to stay.
In the earliest morning human souls are weaving
above bush and tree, freeing themselves from matter and gravity,
floating easily on the bright ether towards the heavens.
Souls are ceaselessly climbing upwards to the stars,
sinking down to the earth to incarnate.
Human souls journey to and fro continually
between earth and heaven.
And above all this journeying between earth and heaven,
above all earthly suffering, brightly shines your star:
I AM !
These words by Gerhard Reisch from "A Book of the Dead" resounding on Friday 4th July 2025 in the North Atelier of the Goetheanum at the opening of our meeting of International Trainers Forum ITF representing Professional Biography Trainings worldwide in the General Anthroposophical Section of the School of Spiritual Science. Each colleague offered their respect and honouring of Fumiko, who served in our collective endeavour since its inception in 2003 with her especial integrity of consciousness soul.
We Salute you Fumiko and say Farewell ...
ITF Meeting Goetheanum photo 6th July 2025 gathered around the sculpture
"Space of Warmth" dedicated to Worldwide Biography Movement
Standing left to right: Yuko Hibara (JP), Gemma Priess (DE), Paola Forasacco (IT), Paula Boon( NL), Claudiu Pănculescu (RO), Karen Armbruster (ES), Christopher Bee (UK), Vera G. Klein (NL), Elida Quintas (AR), Amparo del Moral (BR), Ronaldo Perlatto (BR), Anna Romanova (RU), Philip Jacobsen (CH), Elisabeth Burkart (DE). Sitting left to right: Joop Grün (CH), Valerin Gorgoshidze (GE), Damiana Comune (AR), Kristy ZhouRi (CN), Patricia Rubano (US), Yael Armony (IL), Antje-Solveigh Streit (CH)
July 10, 2025
My dearest Fumiko
I am eternally grateful for knowing you first through WBC meetings, then through the UK anthroposophy training development courses. Met and work with you and team Japan in Helsinki WBC 2022- before you and team organised the one in beautiful Kyoto mountains. In Japan you invited me and my family to Yokohama and told me that it is an important city and it is important for us to go there with you. I learnt it being one of the first Japanese Ports opening to foreign trade in 1859. The significance for openness and acceptance for others, diversity and new in life.
Throughout our meetings and encounters together through years I loved how you invited and
surprised the other/me without warning to be present in various occasions. Creating a momentum to support individual
growth and orientation. Thank you for all those gifts.
It was privileged to see and meet your Japanese colleagues in Helsinki and then in Kyoto and realise all the enormous work you have done towards the development of Biography work together in Japan.
St John's day is a special day to cross the threshold. You have been and are present in life.
I sent my love and warmest thoughts whilst joining you all at this time of sudden shock and sadness.Sending heartfelt greetings to Fumiko's family, colleagues --worldwide biography community to accept John's invitation to celebrate her life and our lives, memories and meetings together. When I think of Fumiko, word 'beauty' comes naturally. Her acute sense of beauty was present, she brought about wherever she was.
With deepest gratitude,
Riitta
I am eternally grateful for knowing you first through WBC meetings, then through the UK anthroposophy training development courses. Met and work with you and team Japan in Helsinki WBC 2022- before you and team organised the one in beautiful Kyoto mountains. In Japan you invited me and my family to Yokohama and told me that it is an important city and it is important for us to go there with you. I learnt it being one of the first Japanese Ports opening to foreign trade in 1859. The significance for openness and acceptance for others, diversity and new in life.
Throughout our meetings and encounters together through years I loved how you invited and
surprised the other/me without warning to be present in various occasions. Creating a momentum to support individual
growth and orientation. Thank you for all those gifts.
It was privileged to see and meet your Japanese colleagues in Helsinki and then in Kyoto and realise all the enormous work you have done towards the development of Biography work together in Japan.
St John's day is a special day to cross the threshold. You have been and are present in life.
I sent my love and warmest thoughts whilst joining you all at this time of sudden shock and sadness.Sending heartfelt greetings to Fumiko's family, colleagues --worldwide biography community to accept John's invitation to celebrate her life and our lives, memories and meetings together. When I think of Fumiko, word 'beauty' comes naturally. Her acute sense of beauty was present, she brought about wherever she was.
With deepest gratitude,
Riitta
July 10, 2025
Fumiko remains in my memory with unique qualities. She stands out, working selflessly in many situations, generously serving the needs of many individuals; including anthroposophic training endeavours such as psychotherapy and the worldwide biography movement. However, her unique quality of selfless serving was neither passive nor 'servile'. Her selflessness was unusually combined with an ability to be forthright; to courageously express her own thoughts, feelings, perspectives and ideals. She 'knew her own mind' and could be free and open in this way, at the same time as being deeply attentive to serving a greater whole. I experienced this combination of inner certainty, transparency and humility as something quite unusual and remarkable. In this way she carried a fiery Michaelic spirit alongside a giving and graceful flowing. I was enchanted by her joy in her garden and her love and care for the seedlings she grew from seeds planted in spring. She planted many positive seeds in the world, tending many seedlings and she will continue to care for these from the spiritual world and into the future.
July 10, 2025
July 10 2025
Dear Fumiko, We first met almost exactly 20 years ago. There was a biographical Conference at the Goetheanum with the title: 'In turbulent times..' You invited me right away to come to Forest Row, which I did in the same year. You told me that you wanted to hear more about the pain, I had mentioned. Now I understand that it is also about the pain of all human beings. the pain of becoming human. Since then, we have been in touch in many ways. and in many places. To me you are a witness to the high courage to go forwards, the courage of the heart. Thank you, Fumiko! Christine
Dear Fumiko, We first met almost exactly 20 years ago. There was a biographical Conference at the Goetheanum with the title: 'In turbulent times..' You invited me right away to come to Forest Row, which I did in the same year. You told me that you wanted to hear more about the pain, I had mentioned. Now I understand that it is also about the pain of all human beings. the pain of becoming human. Since then, we have been in touch in many ways. and in many places. To me you are a witness to the high courage to go forwards, the courage of the heart. Thank you, Fumiko! Christine
July 9, 2025
近見冨美子さま
バイオグラフィーワークを日本に伝え、私たちを教え導いてくださったことに心より感謝いたします。何が来ようとも、何度も何度も海を越え、その人生のかけがえのない時間を捧げてくださったことに感謝します。冨美子さんが蒔いてくださった種が、私たちの内奥でそれぞれに芽吹き、花ひらいているのがそちらからは見えるでしょうか。天界での旅路が安寧でありますようお祈りいたします。
日本で開催されたWBC2024では百合香さんに大変ご尽力をいただきました。この場をお借りして御礼申し上げるとともに、ご家族さま、ご親族さまに、心よりお悔やみ申し上げます。
バイオグラフィーワーカーズ・ジュピター一同
We are deeply grateful from the bottom of our hearts. You brought Biography Work to Japan and guided us with wisdom and care. You devoted so much of your precious time, crossing the sea again and again — no matter the circumstances — to be with us and walk alongside us.
Do you see from where you are how the seeds you planted deep within each of us have taken root and blossomed?
May your journey in the spiritual world be peaceful and full of light.
We are also sincerely thankful to Yurika for her tremendous support during WBC 2024 in Kyoto, Japan. To your family and loved ones, we send our heartfelt condolences.
With love and gratitude, All the members of Biography Workers Jupiter
バイオグラフィーワークを日本に伝え、私たちを教え導いてくださったことに心より感謝いたします。何が来ようとも、何度も何度も海を越え、その人生のかけがえのない時間を捧げてくださったことに感謝します。冨美子さんが蒔いてくださった種が、私たちの内奥でそれぞれに芽吹き、花ひらいているのがそちらからは見えるでしょうか。天界での旅路が安寧でありますようお祈りいたします。
日本で開催されたWBC2024では百合香さんに大変ご尽力をいただきました。この場をお借りして御礼申し上げるとともに、ご家族さま、ご親族さまに、心よりお悔やみ申し上げます。
バイオグラフィーワーカーズ・ジュピター一同
We are deeply grateful from the bottom of our hearts. You brought Biography Work to Japan and guided us with wisdom and care. You devoted so much of your precious time, crossing the sea again and again — no matter the circumstances — to be with us and walk alongside us.
Do you see from where you are how the seeds you planted deep within each of us have taken root and blossomed?
May your journey in the spiritual world be peaceful and full of light.
We are also sincerely thankful to Yurika for her tremendous support during WBC 2024 in Kyoto, Japan. To your family and loved ones, we send our heartfelt condolences.
With love and gratitude, All the members of Biography Workers Jupiter
July 8, 2025
Dear John,
It was a long time ago, or maybe not so long, we all shared intense, meaningful life changing crossings. I am grateful for those. I remember Fumiko for her maturity and committed attitude to our work together.
I know your shared love will continue to warm and illumine you both forever.
I send you and family my warmest thoughts and condolences for her passing.
It was a long time ago, or maybe not so long, we all shared intense, meaningful life changing crossings. I am grateful for those. I remember Fumiko for her maturity and committed attitude to our work together.
I know your shared love will continue to warm and illumine you both forever.
I send you and family my warmest thoughts and condolences for her passing.
July 7, 2025
Dear Fumiko
It was quite a shock to hear this news. Your loving presence will be missed. Since so many years, it was quite a warm support I could feel in your kind words, your wise restraint and your calm, smiling demeanour.
Wish you a journey, a spiritually gifted one, across the threshold,
You will be always remembered with love.
It was quite a shock to hear this news. Your loving presence will be missed. Since so many years, it was quite a warm support I could feel in your kind words, your wise restraint and your calm, smiling demeanour.
Wish you a journey, a spiritually gifted one, across the threshold,
You will be always remembered with love.
July 7, 2025
Dear Fumiko,
since I heard of your passing you have come frequently to my mind.
I remember you as my student of the Biographical Counselling Training at the Centre for Social,Development in the early 90ies and how you carried the work onwards to your homeland as a fierceful researcher and servant of the Biography Impulse.
I remember you also as a fellow member of the ITF (International Trainer‘s Forum for Biography Work)
and I remember you as my colleague who shared the care and organisation of the Worldwide Biography Conference with great determination and power of initiative, sensing intuitively what was needed. …bringing the Conference to Emerson College at a time when Emerson needed finances to survive, thus serving both - the Conference and Emerson..
I wish you a blissful onward journey in which you can continue to contribute, enrich and inspire wherever needed,
with my love, gratefulness and heartfelt condolences for your family.
since I heard of your passing you have come frequently to my mind.
I remember you as my student of the Biographical Counselling Training at the Centre for Social,Development in the early 90ies and how you carried the work onwards to your homeland as a fierceful researcher and servant of the Biography Impulse.
I remember you also as a fellow member of the ITF (International Trainer‘s Forum for Biography Work)
and I remember you as my colleague who shared the care and organisation of the Worldwide Biography Conference with great determination and power of initiative, sensing intuitively what was needed. …bringing the Conference to Emerson College at a time when Emerson needed finances to survive, thus serving both - the Conference and Emerson..
I wish you a blissful onward journey in which you can continue to contribute, enrich and inspire wherever needed,
with my love, gratefulness and heartfelt condolences for your family.
July 7, 2025
Since I heard of Fumiko‘s passing she has come frequently to my mind.
I remember her as my student in the Biographical Counselling Training at the Centre for Social Development in the early 90ies.
I recall how she continued the work, becoming a fierceful researcher and servant of the Biography impulse carrying it to her homeland with great perseverance and dedication.
I later remember her as my fellow member in the ITF (International Trainer‘s Forum for Biography Work)
And I remember her as my colleague who shared the care and organisation of the Worldwide Biography Conference with strong intention and power of initiative, sensing intuitively what was needed.
She brought the Conference to Emerson College at a time when Emerson needed income to survive thus serving both, the Conference and Emerson college.
Dear Fumiko, I wish you a blissful onward journey in which you will be able to continue to contribute, enrich and inspire wherever needed from the other side of the threshold..
with love and my heartfelt condolences go to your family.
I remember her as my student in the Biographical Counselling Training at the Centre for Social Development in the early 90ies.
I recall how she continued the work, becoming a fierceful researcher and servant of the Biography impulse carrying it to her homeland with great perseverance and dedication.
I later remember her as my fellow member in the ITF (International Trainer‘s Forum for Biography Work)
And I remember her as my colleague who shared the care and organisation of the Worldwide Biography Conference with strong intention and power of initiative, sensing intuitively what was needed.
She brought the Conference to Emerson College at a time when Emerson needed income to survive thus serving both, the Conference and Emerson college.
Dear Fumiko, I wish you a blissful onward journey in which you will be able to continue to contribute, enrich and inspire wherever needed from the other side of the threshold..
with love and my heartfelt condolences go to your family.
July 6, 2025
I feel so grateful for having met and known Fumiko and she has been in my thoughts in the past days. Her strong will, kindness and interest in others will continue to inspire me.
July 6, 2025
The news fills me with sadness. I met Fumiko at the conference in Hungary, where I attended her workshop. Fumiko inspired me, and since then I have had an hourglass in my clinic. I thank Fumiko for her warm hospitality, for her contribution to our path, I will always remember her noble character and I wish her light will continue to accompany us.
July 6, 2025
The news fills me with sadness. I met Fumiko at the conference in Hungary, where I attended her workshop. Fumiko inspired me, and since then I have had an hourglass in my clinic. I thank Fumiko for her warm hospitality, for her contribution to our path, Iwill always remember her noble character and I wish her light will continue to accompany us.
July 6, 2025
Deborah writes: My first impression of Fumiko was of someone regal: she wore very beautiful Japanese clothes and stood very straight, meeting your eye. I was so impressed that she and others had committed to help Emerson at such a crucial time. I also very much admired her commitment to biography work, and her actions around the nuclear disaster at Fukushima. I think very warmly of her and of John and all who were close to her. Although her loss is terribly painful, I am sure she will remain close to us in spirit.
Tom writes: I learned from Fumiko, not only in thoughts that we shared, but in witnessing her fiery will. She embodied the virtue of hope, which lived in her like a physical substance. It was inspiring to witness how this sustained her through the most difficult times at Emerson College, where we were both on the Board in the early 2010s. I also rejoiced in her capacity to cope with difference, engaging creatively until we had understand something better. My love and best wishes go to all who knew her and loved her. I would suggest that we all listen carefully to moments when a clarity of purpose and unexpected hope arrives in our souls, where we might not have expected it otherwise: then we can know that she is close to us.
Tom writes: I learned from Fumiko, not only in thoughts that we shared, but in witnessing her fiery will. She embodied the virtue of hope, which lived in her like a physical substance. It was inspiring to witness how this sustained her through the most difficult times at Emerson College, where we were both on the Board in the early 2010s. I also rejoiced in her capacity to cope with difference, engaging creatively until we had understand something better. My love and best wishes go to all who knew her and loved her. I would suggest that we all listen carefully to moments when a clarity of purpose and unexpected hope arrives in our souls, where we might not have expected it otherwise: then we can know that she is close to us.
July 6, 2025
On hearing the news about Fumiko, I wanted to be in nature. As I walked along the canal near my home, the words came to me: “He leads me beside still waters”. The water lilies growing in the peaceful green plane where cool water meets summer air, seemed to speak of Fumiko.
She touched my life for only brief moments, but in a profound way, not demanding anything in return. I shall miss her and send my deepest thanks for her encouragement to persevere in seeking healing.
She touched my life for only brief moments, but in a profound way, not demanding anything in return. I shall miss her and send my deepest thanks for her encouragement to persevere in seeking healing.
July 6, 2025
John recalled some events from Fumiko's life. Fumiko was a person of the will and, when John received requests to speak around the world, she always urged him to accept these invitations. She had written a book called ‘Memory Work’. In the spirit of Goetheanism, her search was for what lay beyond the phenomena. She was inspired by the poet Antoine de St Éxupérie with his ability to enchant memory.
Other memories from encounters with her were reported from our group. At a conference on biography work in Dornach, one could experience how the development of biography concepts was fertilised by John's understanding of psychotherapy and, conversely, how John's conceptualisation of psychotherapy was fertilised by Fumiko.
She had a joy in the smallest things that she could admire and in the beauty of the world around her. In encounters, her deep interest in the other person was always evident. She was a refined, elegant person, always open to co-operation on a wide variety of matters. It was a pleasure to experience her joy when she introduced us to Japanese culture and lifestyle. It was noticeable how this kind of harmony with the surrounding world was part of her personality. Everyone who knew her could relate to her quiet Japanese way of working without ever complaining. Problems were always greeted with joy and the future was met with open curiosity. When she passed over into the spiritual world, it was in the morning of the St. John’s day.
Other memories from encounters with her were reported from our group. At a conference on biography work in Dornach, one could experience how the development of biography concepts was fertilised by John's understanding of psychotherapy and, conversely, how John's conceptualisation of psychotherapy was fertilised by Fumiko.
She had a joy in the smallest things that she could admire and in the beauty of the world around her. In encounters, her deep interest in the other person was always evident. She was a refined, elegant person, always open to co-operation on a wide variety of matters. It was a pleasure to experience her joy when she introduced us to Japanese culture and lifestyle. It was noticeable how this kind of harmony with the surrounding world was part of her personality. Everyone who knew her could relate to her quiet Japanese way of working without ever complaining. Problems were always greeted with joy and the future was met with open curiosity. When she passed over into the spiritual world, it was in the morning of the St. John’s day.
July 5, 2025
Belovèd Friends ...
Fumiko You are a Rising Star
"The Wake" by Gerhard Reisch (1899-1975)
Rigid in death the body lies,
an empty house,
from which the spirit has escaped.
The soul feels its way in the domain of spirit,
still dark, it is true, yet full of the power
it has gained
through devoted, earnest toil.
The power of the 'I'
will now be its guide
on the solemn journey into the land of the spirits;
thus speaks the Christ seeker,
newly enlivened
as student on paths of spirit:
Greetings and thanks
to the Great Teacher.
Greetings and thanks to those friends
who remain with me in devoted love.
Greetings and thanks
and one day, eventually …
we shall meet again!
Fumiko You are a Rising Star
"The Wake" by Gerhard Reisch (1899-1975)
Rigid in death the body lies,
an empty house,
from which the spirit has escaped.
The soul feels its way in the domain of spirit,
still dark, it is true, yet full of the power
it has gained
through devoted, earnest toil.
The power of the 'I'
will now be its guide
on the solemn journey into the land of the spirits;
thus speaks the Christ seeker,
newly enlivened
as student on paths of spirit:
Greetings and thanks
to the Great Teacher.
Greetings and thanks to those friends
who remain with me in devoted love.
Greetings and thanks
and one day, eventually …
we shall meet again!
July 5, 2025
I just received your email regarding Fumiko’s parting with shock and sadness.
My condolences come to you, her family and the greater ITF and Biography workers community.
May her travels lead her onward into sacred dimensions of light and wisdom, and may we let her go in peace.
Warmest regards,
My condolences come to you, her family and the greater ITF and Biography workers community.
May her travels lead her onward into sacred dimensions of light and wisdom, and may we let her go in peace.
Warmest regards,
July 5, 2025
Thank you, Yuko, for this unexpected and sad news.
She's on her way to the spiritual world, having fulfilled her mission of promoting biographical work in the East. I remember her in our meetings with such peace, clarity and strength. She'll be with us next week.
She's on her way to the spiritual world, having fulfilled her mission of promoting biographical work in the East. I remember her in our meetings with such peace, clarity and strength. She'll be with us next week.
July 5, 2025
Dear Colleagues,
May Fumiko peacefully travel in her journey to the spiritual world, being accompanied and supported by her Guardian Angel and not only!
I honour her dedicated life mission to anthroposophy and biography work...
I am glad that I've had the privilege to meet her and talk to her several times...
Condolences to you Yuko, and to her family, friends and relatives!
Warmly,
May Fumiko peacefully travel in her journey to the spiritual world, being accompanied and supported by her Guardian Angel and not only!
I honour her dedicated life mission to anthroposophy and biography work...
I am glad that I've had the privilege to meet her and talk to her several times...
Condolences to you Yuko, and to her family, friends and relatives!
Warmly,
July 5, 2025
I add my words of condolence and send my heartfelt warmth to all those who were especially close to Fumiko.
As I thought of her last night, I felt my first meeting with her at Emerson College when she was a major organizer of the three years of the WBC that were held there. She appeared so strong, confident and competent - and I came to know her in those ways.
I thought of the years between and getting to know her a bit more and appreciating how much she carried this beloved biography work and how she brought it to Japan. I began to see her as the multi-cultural person that she was and appreciated getting a glimpse of the Japanese culture through her.
And to then recall this recent time in Japan - seeing her in her own land and the relaxed way she seemed to carry her position there was wonderful and how she worked with the group there. I felt ascolleagues in a deeper way than I had before.
All these memories that we each carry, we can hold for her and share with one another to support her on her journey, now.
Thank you, Yuko and all those who have shared. We have all benefitted from Fumiko's life among us,
As I thought of her last night, I felt my first meeting with her at Emerson College when she was a major organizer of the three years of the WBC that were held there. She appeared so strong, confident and competent - and I came to know her in those ways.
I thought of the years between and getting to know her a bit more and appreciating how much she carried this beloved biography work and how she brought it to Japan. I began to see her as the multi-cultural person that she was and appreciated getting a glimpse of the Japanese culture through her.
And to then recall this recent time in Japan - seeing her in her own land and the relaxed way she seemed to carry her position there was wonderful and how she worked with the group there. I felt ascolleagues in a deeper way than I had before.
All these memories that we each carry, we can hold for her and share with one another to support her on her journey, now.
Thank you, Yuko and all those who have shared. We have all benefitted from Fumiko's life among us,
July 5, 2025
Your message touched me deeply. Thank you for letting us know.
My thoughts are with Fumiko and all those who miss her now.
How wonderful that she managed to bring the WBC to Japan, before she started her journey to other worlds!
Warmest regards,
My thoughts are with Fumiko and all those who miss her now.
How wonderful that she managed to bring the WBC to Japan, before she started her journey to other worlds!
Warmest regards,
July 5, 2025
Thank you for informing us of this so important and sad news on John's Day.
What an honour it is for me to have met Fumiko and to have been able to share with her the Japan meeting and the transition to the next event in Spain.
A big hug to all her family and friends there.
Best regards.
What an honour it is for me to have met Fumiko and to have been able to share with her the Japan meeting and the transition to the next event in Spain.
A big hug to all her family and friends there.
Best regards.
July 5, 2025
thank you to let us know immediately although it must be very hard for you to write these words.
I try to imagine how you and all the people who stay close to Fumiko feel at this moment.
I am thinking of you,the beautiful moments in Japan and most of all the presence of Fumiko.
Her words during the meeting of the ITF
have been strong,clearly and full of honour towards the the spiritual world.
I was deep impressed of her courage!
Even if I only met her two times,she will stay in my heart, I will never forget the way she spoke.
I send my condolence to the family and to you,thinking and praying for Fumiko,knowing she will lead us further from the otherside !!
Warm greetings and hugs
I try to imagine how you and all the people who stay close to Fumiko feel at this moment.
I am thinking of you,the beautiful moments in Japan and most of all the presence of Fumiko.
Her words during the meeting of the ITF
have been strong,clearly and full of honour towards the the spiritual world.
I was deep impressed of her courage!
Even if I only met her two times,she will stay in my heart, I will never forget the way she spoke.
I send my condolence to the family and to you,thinking and praying for Fumiko,knowing she will lead us further from the otherside !!
Warm greetings and hugs
July 5, 2025
Thank you very much for the prompt transmission of this important and sad message.
I had a lot to do with Fumiko and always held her in high esteem. She was a true, Michaelian fighter for the biography work movement.
My heartfelt condolences go to her immediate family and all those who were close to her.
The fact that she died on the Feast of St. John is very much in keeping with her character in life.
My thoughts of her are filled with respect, gratitude and fellowship as a loyal colleague, with the words that Rudolf Steiner gave us:
“May my love turn to you, dear Fumiko, that it may warm your cold, soften your warmth ...”
In warm closeness
I had a lot to do with Fumiko and always held her in high esteem. She was a true, Michaelian fighter for the biography work movement.
My heartfelt condolences go to her immediate family and all those who were close to her.
The fact that she died on the Feast of St. John is very much in keeping with her character in life.
My thoughts of her are filled with respect, gratitude and fellowship as a loyal colleague, with the words that Rudolf Steiner gave us:
“May my love turn to you, dear Fumiko, that it may warm your cold, soften your warmth ...”
In warm closeness
July 5, 2025
Thank you for your message and many thoughts to you, her family and her friends!
May the colours of her heart guide her on her new journey!
Warm greetings Antje
Dear Yuko,
our sincere condolences to you and Fumiko’s family, friends and colleagues.
We look with respect and best thoughts to Fumiko, her way and her work. She will stay also for us as spiritual support for the anthroposophy and biography work in the world.
On behalf of georgian team,
May the colours of her heart guide her on her new journey!
Warm greetings Antje
Dear Yuko,
our sincere condolences to you and Fumiko’s family, friends and colleagues.
We look with respect and best thoughts to Fumiko, her way and her work. She will stay also for us as spiritual support for the anthroposophy and biography work in the world.
On behalf of georgian team,
July 5, 2025
Thank you to inform us.
I wish her a very luminous journey back.
Mano strenght for you and her family!
I wish her a very luminous journey back.
Mano strenght for you and her family!
July 5, 2025
Thank you for letting us know about Fumiko’s passing to the spiritual world.
With St. John’s Day, she chose a day that corresponds very well to her inner being: “I have to diminish, HE has to grow.”
I remember her as a dedicated and silent fighter for Anthroposophy and biography work. She was the mentor of the conference in Kyoto, always present, very attentive and caring.
We will miss her cooperation and good impulses but can be sure that she will continue to support Anthroposophy and biography work from the other side to the extent that we relate ourselves to her.
Please offer my sympathies to her family.
Cordial regards
With St. John’s Day, she chose a day that corresponds very well to her inner being: “I have to diminish, HE has to grow.”
I remember her as a dedicated and silent fighter for Anthroposophy and biography work. She was the mentor of the conference in Kyoto, always present, very attentive and caring.
We will miss her cooperation and good impulses but can be sure that she will continue to support Anthroposophy and biography work from the other side to the extent that we relate ourselves to her.
Please offer my sympathies to her family.
Cordial regards
July 5, 2025
Dear friends,
There are coming so many memories about Fumiko to my mind.
She was so special!!!
I will miss her very much in our comunity!
And I am sure that she will help our work of the ITF from the other side of the threshold.
A great hug from Spain
There are coming so many memories about Fumiko to my mind.
She was so special!!!
I will miss her very much in our comunity!
And I am sure that she will help our work of the ITF from the other side of the threshold.
A great hug from Spain
July 5, 2025
I'm writing to you on behalf of Orna and myself, as well as a few other Israeli colleagues who had the chance to meet Fumiko in the WBC.
We were surprised and very sorry to hear about Fumiko's passing. Thank you for letting us know. It's good to know that she crossed the threshold in peace and satisfaction with her work.
We found Fumiko as a wise, quiet, deep and compassionate person, with a great dedication to her spiritual mission.
We send our condolences to her family and also to you and to all the people who worked closely with her.
Sincerely
We were surprised and very sorry to hear about Fumiko's passing. Thank you for letting us know. It's good to know that she crossed the threshold in peace and satisfaction with her work.
We found Fumiko as a wise, quiet, deep and compassionate person, with a great dedication to her spiritual mission.
We send our condolences to her family and also to you and to all the people who worked closely with her.
Sincerely
July 5, 2025
thank you for letting me know. I am very grateful for Fumiko's dedication to her biographical work in Japan and around the world. My condolences to her family. May she continue on her path with the support of the spiritual world.
Sincerely
Sincerely
July 5, 2025
tank you very much for your scharing about Fumiko, that yesterday,on.S.John's Day, passed away at her home in Forest Row.
The gratitude for her work full of Dedication in the ITF and in the world biographie Conference is very great.
I will accompany Fumiko in her journey towards the spirit with my brigth toughts and great gratitude.
Sincerely
The gratitude for her work full of Dedication in the ITF and in the world biographie Conference is very great.
I will accompany Fumiko in her journey towards the spirit with my brigth toughts and great gratitude.
Sincerely
July 5, 2025
What a great shock for you and for all of us!
I have a very strong memory of swimming with Fumiko in the Rhine in Basel. She told me she normally only goes for a swim when she has enough time to fully immerse herself in the experience.
In this light I can see her unexpected death. No long sickness or ailments.. just go for a full next experience..
May she be well received in the light!!
I trust she will be with us in Dornach in Spirit présence.
I wish you strength and comfort.
Warmly
I have a very strong memory of swimming with Fumiko in the Rhine in Basel. She told me she normally only goes for a swim when she has enough time to fully immerse herself in the experience.
In this light I can see her unexpected death. No long sickness or ailments.. just go for a full next experience..
May she be well received in the light!!
I trust she will be with us in Dornach in Spirit présence.
I wish you strength and comfort.
Warmly
July 5, 2025
My condolence to you, her family and all the Japanese friends.
She gave a great contribution to biography work.
She dedicated herself with serious and joy
I think to her in her night biography,
With love
She gave a great contribution to biography work.
She dedicated herself with serious and joy
I think to her in her night biography,
With love
July 5, 2025
We express our heartfelt condolences.
I will miss her. Her passing words in Kyoto were: It seems we have really met this time.
As you know I will not risk the journey to Dornach for the 3-day meeting.
But plan for the WBC in Spain in May 2026.
Wishing you and the family all the strength needed for this time of change.
I will miss her. Her passing words in Kyoto were: It seems we have really met this time.
As you know I will not risk the journey to Dornach for the 3-day meeting.
But plan for the WBC in Spain in May 2026.
Wishing you and the family all the strength needed for this time of change.
Service
made with 
Français
Deutsch
Nederlands
Español
Português
Magyar
Русский
繁體中文