Beloved philanthropist, businessperson Linda Yoshida dies after long battle with illness

Published 5:02 pm Monday, December 16, 2024

Linda Yoshida — a woman recalled fondly as an author, businessperson, philanthropist, wife, mother and best friend — has died, leaving an important legacy that casts its shadow across East Multnomah County and beyond.

Linda, wife of local entrepreneur Junki Yoshida, died Wednesday, Dec. 4, following a long battle with illness.

Linda will be recalled as someone who delighted in serving the community and who was always ready to lend a helping hand.

“Linda had a kind heart and did so much for so many people and groups,” said Terry Smoke, a retired and former co-owner of the Troutdale General Store, whose relationship with the Yoshidas went back many years. “She was always there. Of course there were the [fundraising] parties at the Yoshida estate. And the two of them together started the river safety program that has prevented drownings in the Sandy River.”

For years the Yoshidas welcomed hundreds of visitors to their property along the Sandy River each August for the Soulful Giving Blanket Party, raising money for Randall Children’s Hospital and programs at Providence Cancer Center, along with funds for families and individuals with the disease. Linda — always front and center — could be found greeting guests to the popular event as they arrived.

Jodi Smoke recalls Linda Yoshida simply as the person she would join outside on the deck overlooking the Sandy River, enjoying quiet conversations about everyday life.

“She was an amazing, wonderful person and my absolute best friend,” Jodi said. “It broke my heart. She never did any of the things she did to get noticed. She gave from the bottom of her heart. Nobody deserved [her illness], but she especially did not deserve it. But that’s life.”

Likewise, the members of the Mt. Hood Community College Foundation are mourning the loss of Linda Yoshida, who along with her husband was a major benefactor of the school and its students.

“The Yoshidas’ generosity began with a vision to support education and empower students,” said MHCC President Dr. Lisa Skari. “Together, they donated more than $1 million to MHCC, creating a lasting legacy that will benefit students for years.”

In recognition of their immense contribution, the college named its gymnasium the Yoshida Event Center. The gym serves not only as a sports venue but also as a hub for community gatherings, including Junki Yoshida’s annual karate tournament, where he teaches the values of discipline and perseverance to the next generation.

In addition to their financial contributions, the Yoshida Haven Estate was transferred to the MHCC Foundation, valued at more than $1.5 million. The Yoshidas also established a scholarship fund, which provides tuition assistance for students pursuing their academics and career aspirations.

Beyond their financial donations, Junki and Linda have served on the MHCC Foundation Board of Directors and have been honored with the Patron Saint and Community Partnership awards.

“Linda’s kindness, generosity and unwavering belief in the power of education have made an incredible impact on our community,” Skari said. “We are forever grateful for the contributions Linda and Junki made, and we will honor her memory by carrying forward the work they started.”

During her time at Highline College in Des Moines, Wash., in the 1970s, Linda met her future husband, Junki. Their relationship blossomed through shared interests, including karate demonstrations on campus.

In 1982, the couple launched Yoshida’s Gourmet Sauce, transforming a cherished family recipe into a multimillion-dollar conglomerate known as The Yoshida Group, based in Portland.

Linda is a famous author, though some may know her better by her pen name, Kaylin McFarren, under which she authored many novels. Throughout her writing career, she received dozens of literary awards.

It is unknown if a local memorial or obituary is planned. But the Portland Tribune will provide details if a public memorial is announced.