Tomoko Teverbaugh

Tomoko Teverbaugh, 84, of Gurnee, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 2, 2020, at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville. She was born in Hiroshima Prefecture, Kama County, Japan on July 6, 1935. On April 8, 1968, Tomoko was married at the American Consulate in Fukuoka, Japan, to Jesse W. Teverbaugh, Jr. In her early childhood, Tomoko endured the horrors of WWII, and was a survivor. She learned to overcome cultural barriers, such as learning to speak English and driving, just to name a few, and remained a successful wife and mother through it all. Her experiences growing up taught her to be frugal, thirfty, and with the understanding that nothing goes to waste. She was a longtime member of the Soka Gakkai International (USA) faith, was an animal lover, enjoyed watching Japanese videos, Bruce Lee movies, cooking shows, cooking Japanese dishes to share with family and friends, and dining out at different Japanese restaurants. Tomoko and her son, Jesse, shared a love and joy experiencing different Ramen dishes and meals. She was a loving, a devoted "Bachan" (Grandma), who enjoyed indulging her granddaughter during her 11 years of life, spending hours cooking elaborate Japanese cuisines and other dishes. Tomoko also attended all her granddaughter's school functions, taking enjoyment out of sharing life experiences, and enjoying special time together. They shared a special bond which Kiseki will cherish, have fond memories, and look back on with love for her "Bachan." Tomoko and her daughter, Maiko, share a birthday. In addition to being with family, they celebrated their last two birthdays together visiting animal shelters, and adopting two cats and one kitten. Tomoko bonded with her precious furry baby, Negai, being an attentive kitty grandma, always sharing her favorite sushi/sashimi selections and anything Negai wanted. They shared many meals together and enjoyed cuddle time. She enjoyed teaching her family and friends the Japanese culture and traditions. Tomoko loved music, especially Elvis, The Platters, and recently enjoyed Korean music and programs of which she was unfamiliar with the language, however, loved the melody and would be seen watching and listening for hours on a weekly basis. After the passing of her husband in November of 1987, Tomoko worked at Plasco for 8 years, mastered the production of plastic medical supplies, and was recognized for her excellence. Tomoko was a woman of strong character, determined, had integrity, and was very thoughtful, always putting others before herself. She believed you should enjoy what you have, and everyone should always try and never give up. She instilled these values in her children and granddaughter. Tomoko will be loved and missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her loving family, her children, Jesse W. Teverbaugh V, and Maiko D. Teverbaugh-Shaw; doting grandmother of Kiseki G. Teverbaugh-Shaw; a host of brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and close friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband, and one brother.  Due to the current COVID-19 situation, funeral services and burial will be private. Rene and Rika Geyser, both members of the Soka Gakkai International (USA) faith will be officiating. In the future, the family will be planning for a memorial service which will be extended to family and friends. Arrangements entrusted to Sambrano Funeral & Cremation, Gurnee. Please sign the guestbook at LauraSambranoFunerals.com; 847-571-7719.

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