Jewell Iris Matsuura

Jewell Iris Matsuura, 84, of Pasadena, California, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025.

Born October 24, 1940, in Cavalier, North Dakota, to the late Samuel and Gudrun Samuelson, Jewell was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and community leader. She was married for more than 50 years to her late husband, Richard Matsuura, and together they built a life centered on family and love.

She is survived by her children, Nichole Matsuura, Michele (Robert) Shibuya, and Candace Matsuura; seven grandchildren—Rob Kinji and Richard Shibuya; Madeleine, George, and Krystina Iwanyc; and Rachael and Braydon Kuo—who will carry her memory forward with love.

Jewell gave generously of her time as chair of the La Cañada Thursday Club, Pasadena Playhouse, and the Charity League, and will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, and kindness.

A celebration of life will take place on October 24, 2025, at Cabot & Sons in Pasadena, California. To share a memory of Jewell or leave a message for her family, please visit the guest book below.