Community Mourns the Loss of Anita Tsuji, 1937-2025

Anita Tsuji, a beloved resident of San Marino, California, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. She was 88 years old and surrounded by her devoted children, Tami and Mark, as well as her cherished grandchildren, Chelsea, Chase, and Christina Eldredge.

Born Anita Luise Kummer on March 24, 1937, in New Jersey, Anita spent her early childhood in Germany during the harrowing years of World War II. At the age of ten, she made the solo journey across the Atlantic to the United States, where she awaited the arrival of her parents.

Anita’s personal life was intertwined with her late husband, Harold K. Tsuji, M.D., a distinguished cardiac surgeon. The couple met at Columbia University, where Harold was a Surgical Resident and Anita worked as a Laboratory Technician. Their shared commitment to family and community defined their lives together. They relocated to California in 1960 and settled in San Marino six years later.

Legacy of Community Service

Anita was known for her unwavering dedication to community service. Her volunteering began at her children’s schools in San Marino and expanded to include significant contributions to CARES, a support group for the LA County Hospital at the USC Medical Center. She became actively involved with the Pasadena Junior Philharmonic Committee in 1969, supporting the Pasadena Showcase House of Design, which has funded various music education programs throughout the San Gabriel Valley and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.

In addition to her work with local arts organizations, Anita dedicated over two decades to the Union Station lunch program, where she and fellow volunteers prepared meals for families in need. Her passion for music was evident in her participation with the Los Angeles Master Chorale, the Pasadena Symphony, Pops programs, and the Pasadena Playhouse.

Anita’s love for the outdoors found expression in her long-standing connection to Catalina Island. She and Harold were active members of the Isthmus Yacht Club since 1979, where she held the distinction of being the first woman Commodore, further showcasing her leadership and commitment to community engagement.

A Lasting Impact

Anita Tsuji’s legacy is marked by her kindness, love for family, and unwavering dedication to her community. Her contributions and the impact she made on the lives of those around her will be felt for generations. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to CARES at www.paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/2151418.

A private family burial is planned in Hawaii, honoring both Anita’s wishes and her enduring connection to her roots.