Wendy (Fujimori) Hawkins

Wendy Beth Fujimori

11/ 27/1957 – 3/18/2026

Wendy Beth Fujimori was born in Chicago, Illinois to George and Esther Fujimori, Americans of Japanese ancestry. Her father volunteered from Manzanar Internment Camp to fight against the Japanese in WWII. That legacy was a tremendous source of pride for Wendy.

She graduated from Sullivan High School, tried college but decided to enter the working world. She left Chicago for Los Angeles where she became a production assistant in the film industry which led her into advertising. She developed an artistic eye working with photographers – especially loved the food shots because she was a foodie, calling herself "The Flavor Queen". She was an excellent cook. Her udon was a signature dish.

She kept a lifelong friendship with Shelley Goldstein, a professional entertainer who she met when she was 2 and Shelley was 3. Wendy was married twice and is survived by her former husband Richard Hawkins, her brother Glenn and wife Carol, and a host of extended family.

Wendy developed scoliosis at the age of 12 but was high functioning in her youth - loved to dance, loved music and the disco scene. As the years and the scoliosis advanced, they left her debilitated and in great pain. She died March 18, 2026, at HaysMed. She was a member of the McCracken Kansas community for the last decade.

Wendy’s family has chosen cremation through Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2509 Vine, Hays, Kansas, 67601. At this time, no formal services are planned.

All who knew and loved Wendy are invited to share their memories and celebrate her life on her tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com.

Memorials are suggested Humane Society of the High Plains in Hays, Kansas.