Condolences

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  05/15/2023

  Radha Horton-Parker

  Reiko was a dear colleague who dedicated many years of hard work, kindness, and thoughtfulness to our Counseling and Human Services programs. Her exceptional work ethic, extraordinary sense of ethics, genuine concern for others, and compassionate nature touched the lives of countless individuals. I still fondly recall the childhood moral teachings and customs from her culture that she shared with me. Though she may no longer be with us, her legacy will live on as an inspiration to all who knew her. My deepest condolences go out to her family and loved ones. May her soul rest in eternal peace. Radha Horton-Parker

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  05/11/2023

  Ed Schwab

  Reiko, my first memory. It was an early spring morning in Kalamazoo, Michigan. I was a student at Western Michigan University and I was on my way to the Administration Building. Cherry trees had already begun to blossom. During the night a wind that passed over Lake Michigan picking up moisture deposited it as snow. Some cherry blossoms had fallen on top of the snow. As I approached I saw a co-ed squatting beneath a cherry tree. In one hand she held a small ashtray and in the other a pair of chopsticks. I watched her pick up one blossom after another and carefully place them in the ashtray. I asked her what she was doing. Reiko told me she would add a little lukewarm water and the flowers would float and share their beauty with her for the rest of the day. And so this Japanese practice was revealed to me; to save and enjoy beauty that would otherwise wither on the snow. I was fascinated. And that fascination was present many times over our married life of 54 years. Reiko has enriched my life! –Ed Schwab

• 05/09/2023

  Dorothy Tiedeman

  Dr. Schwab was a wonderful professor who guided me through Old Dominion University's Counseling Program. I am forever grateful for the knowledge she shared and the high standards she held for all of her students. I will never forget her. Dorothy Tiedeman ODU MS.Ed '89