On 19 June 2025, Yoko passed away at home from congestive heart failure as a symptom of old age. She passed a mere two days after the diagnosis. She died peacefully under my bed laying on top of a blanket she slept on almost every day, as I was caressing her head. Witnessing the life drain from her eyes as her body fell limp was an experience that I never thought I would witness. That moment is something I will never forget, but the thousands of happy memories of her will always live on as well. Her body was cremated, her ashes and bone meal kept in a silk pouch in a special place in my home. Her presence is missed more and more every single day, as now my bed is empty each day.
It was heartbreaking to watch her slowly wither away, her breathing laboured, and wanting to do nothing but hide away in dark corners. However, I felt like the best thing to do would be to let her pass on her own terms, and spend her last moments where she wanted to in the comfort of home and surrounded by those who love her. It still brings tears to my eyes that in her final moments, she came to my room, laid on that blanket, and just stared at me. There is solace in the fact that she had the autonomy to choose where her final breath would be.
She lived a long life, and within her 16 years, we grew up side by side and brought both myself and my family so much peace, tranquillity, companionship, and unconditional love. She will be forever missed, and it is still difficult to believe to this day that she's moved on from our realm. I miss her so much and love her deeply. She will be immortalized in the hundreds of photos and videos taken of her over the years, and in the memories of those who loved her.
Rest well Yoko, I love you. Say hi the others for me!
