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Nadine Enid Kazuko Oka passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 27, 2020. She lost a fierce battle with an aggressive form of cancer–five weeks after diagnosis.
Nadine was born in Carmel, CA on February 4, 1959 to the late Giro “Jiggs” Oka and the late Miyoko “Miyo” Oka (nee Yokota). She leaves behind many loved ones including; her brother Ron Oka and wife Elizabeth, sister Denise Oka and husband Brent Rieker, soulmate Barbara Hughes, four-legged children, Callie & Casey, and numerous other relatives.
Nadine grew up in Monterey, CA and moved to the Atlanta, GA area in 1976 to work at a Cosmetology school and then as a Hairdresser. It was through her job as a hairdresser that she met many close friends and acquaintances–one of whom eventually hired her to work on the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. That position introduced her to the ADA world, and was the beginning of her new career. From the Olympics she worked for the Atlanta Housing Authority and several years later, secured her latest position with Fulton County as the ADA Administrator.
Nadine studied Martial Arts as a teenager and after a decades long break, resumed her studies in 2000 at the age of 41. She eventually became a Godan (5th degree) Black Belt in Koto-Su Ha Shito Ryu Karate Do and a Nidan (2nd Degree) in Kobudo (weapons) under the International Karate Kobudo Union (IKKU). In hindsight, watching her knock the neighborhood bully off his bike when we were in grade school was a precursor of what was to be. It was at her dojo where she met her best friend Barb, also a Godan (size can be deceiving). BTW, Nadine did not do as well with ringing the belly dancing bells during Zumba.
Nadine was an active person; if you called her she was usually working on some home improvement project—rebuilding her deck, organizing her tools, securing the fence, or filling the doggie holes. A true Yokota, she also was a foodie and among other types, loved Mexican food (Del Rio and Fidel’s) and came to love her southern food: pork chops, grits, sausage gravy, pork chops, biscuits, pork chops…She was a no-nonsense person on the one hand, with a low tolerance for some situations and people, but on the other hand, was extremely patient and didn’t seem to get angry as her yard was slowly being destroyed by her new adoptees Callie & Casey.
Nadine was strong; Nadine was tough. When she entered the hospital, she let the doctors know that just the month before, she could put down a 200 lb. man (note the comment about neighborhood bully above). Nadine always volunteered to be the uke during Karate testing. An uke is an honorable position; the person who receives the punches and kicks (i.e. techniques) from the tester. In true Samurai spirit and a testament to Nadine’s, even on the morning of her passing, she let the Doctors know she was not willing to give up; this time, she did not willingly volunteer to become the uke to cancer.
Nadine will be cremated and scattered at sea.
The family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 3570 Buford Hwy #202, Duluth, GA 30096 (678) 584-0914 www.GeorgiaCremation.com
Alice Johnson says
I had the privilege of working with Nadine several years at Waffle House. She excelled in her work.
I loved her and am crushed with her passing.
Jan and Don Roberts says
Gone but never forgotten.
Cynthia says
I remember the first day I met Nadine and the last day we met for lunch.
Always a JOY!
Dr. B and I love Nadine – Nadine will always be a treasured friend.
Kathy Glynn says
Understated class, through and through. Nadine was a rare friend, and I find myself smiling and even laughing in my grief as I contemplate what we all have lost with her passing.
Nicole Aarts says
An incredible individual to say the least.
I only pray to one day find myself in a friendship as unwavering and virtuous as the bond my mother had with her.
Someone I genuinely look up to and will miss dearly.
Michael Downton says
Renshi Shihan Oka was more than a friend, she was everything a person should be. She was the glue that held together so many friendships & connections. Her spirit & her heart will never be forgotten & always held close.
Kim Young says
My deepest condolences….Nadine was a true champion in life and at the pool table!! She is already missed.
Jenn Reitano says
I met Nadine in my first karate class and I looked up to her immediately. She became a sensei and a friend. She was fierce, loyal, kind, courteous, and thoughtful. She called me kiddo and I called her my “dojo mama.” I am going to miss her deeply and will carry her memory with me always. My deepest condolences to her family and other friends.
BJHewitt says
Please accept my sincerest condolences. Nadine was so terribly special. We loved going to lunch while she worked at the Atlanta Housing Authority. She shared much of her life and was even more delighted with stories if my life. Her spirit of genuineness overwhelmed me with every lunch, every talk, every email. I just pray I returned her unconditional high regard and love for me. I shall never forget the story about how hard she worked on her gold fish pond. I will miss her terribly, and I’m so glad I knew her…and loved her.
Kelly Willis Rice says
I met Nadine while playing on the S.E.A.L Tour. She was so fun to be around. RIP my friend.
Amy Howell says
Nadine was a true friend in every sense of the word. She opened her home and her heart to all of us in the International Karate Kobudo Union. She was always willing to learn and to teach. She loved a good time but could be all business. She brought enthusiasm and great spirit to all she did.
She will be terribly missed by all who knew her but especially by all of us Women of the IKKU.
Nadine was an exceptional person and we will miss her greatly; especially when we see a pair of tonfa.
Love you and miss you, Nadine.
Cassandra Davis says
Ms Oka was truly a great asset to Fulton County. My condolences go out to the family.
Warren and Mary Anne Hughes says
Nadine was family. She was our second daughter. Our lives have been greatly enriched by sharing many special times. Her love and memories will help us move forward.
Lorelei Ortiz says
Lorelei Ortiz (AKA- Lori, and nickname from Soke Ruiz- the Dragon Lady)
January 2, 2021
I am so sad to hear of Nadine’s passing. My deepest sympathy to Barbara, Nadine’s family, and the many others who knew and loved her. She was truly an amazing person in so many ways. I am blessed to have known her and privileged to have learned from her. I remember her 1st class in Shito Ryu and how excited I was that she joined. Nadine was always eager, dedicated, and as happy to learn as she was to share her knowledge. Although she had many talents and vast knowledge, Nadine was always humble. A true warrior spirit with a kind and generous heart. She will never be forgotten and will live on in all the lives she’s touched.
SGH says
Sending Prays to Nadine’s Family and Friends during their time of bereavement………
R.I.P. Nadine
Niger Thomas says
As a member of Nadine’s Fulton County family, I wanted to send my deepest condolences to all those mourning this loss. In many ways I am still in shock.
She will be missed.
Betty Long says
I never check this email, but opened it today, and my grief is beyond words. I’ve known Nadine since she was 18. She was my room mate for many years while I lived there. We stayed in touch over the years. She was one of a kind person that you could always count on. I am in shock. Please Denise and Barbara, please call me. 949/887-8024. I don’t know what to say, I am in shock.
MARSHA MCCRACKEN says
Nadine and I were colleagues at Fulton County Government-DCRC for the last 10+ years. I considered her a friend for just as long. I will miss her friendship, her passionate knowledge, expertise and the compassion she shared in her profession. My condolences and prayerful thoughts to her Family and Friends. Nadine’s sudden passing has shocked us all.
Jennifer Forrester says
I was Nadine’s nextdoor neighbor for several years during my childhood. I lost touch with her after leaving home at 18 and fortunately had one opportunity to reconnect with her briefly a few years ago. We didn’t stay in touch, and I know she was extremely private, but I was grateful for that chance fate allowed me because she’d made such a difference in my life, probably more than she even knew at the time. I dogsat her beloved Bailey most days after school; I still have his framed photo, as he and that experience really gave me purpose and helped me knowing how much she trusted me with the responsibility. I loved sitting by her koi pond in the backyard letting the fish nibble my fingers before I fed them. She took me to Cirque de Soleil one year, which was an unforgettable experience. I loved when her mom came for visits – she was always so sweet and made me laugh and always made sure I got a See’s Rocky Road egg every single Easter – a tradition I still keep to this day for my own self at 40 years old as an homage to them both. We must have had some deep conversations at some point because I remember a book Nadine once gave me when I was a teenager about spiritual matters. She always felt like a solid, grounded presence. I feel extremely fortunate to have had her in my life and only wish we hadn’t gotten out of touch. I’m so saddened by her passing and wish so much love to her partner, animals, family, and friends.
David Summerlin says
Nadine was a consummate professional. She was also a friend and a great person. I truly enjoyed working with her and she will be greatly missed!
David,
Superior Court of Fulton County
Bernice H Gordon says
I worked with Nadine for some time at Fulton County Government. She was respected by many for her knowledge and dedication to working with the ADA community. I am shocked about the sudden loss of a strong-willed and unforgettable person. I send my sincere condolences to her family and friends. She will be missed.
Robin Coggswell says
I had the pleasure of working with Nadine on many Fulton County projects. Nadine was a true professional in the execution of her work. She will be greatly missed. My condolences to Nadine’s family and friends.
Robin Coggswell
Fulton County
Terry L. Noble says
Please accept my sincerest condolences. Nadine was always very helpful to me at Fulton County.
I could always call on her for guidance and directions on ADA matters and she responded promptly with solutions.
Peace and blessings to her family.
Terry L. Noble
Fulton County
Deirdre Smith says
I am so sorry to hear of Nadine’s passing. I’m just shocked to be honest. She was a great, sincere, and lovely person. Nothing she wouldn’t do for you! My condolences to all her family and friends but especially to Barb. Dale and I love you and if there is anything we can do please let us know!
Love and prayers , Dale and Deirdre
Carlos S. Thomas says
My condolences are extended to the family of Nadine Oka. Nadine was a beckon of light and knowledge at Fulton County Government. She was great supporter of the Fulton County Youth and Community Services Division. In November, 2020 she passionately presented on “Program Access Under the ADA” to over 200 community stakeholders during two virtual Community Services Program Technical Assistance Workshops. Nadine is truly missed!
Carlos S. Thomas, Division Manager, Fulton County Youth and Community Services Division
Debbie Barnett says
Nadine was one of a kind! Loved her ! We worked many years together doing hair, got in all kinds of good trouble! We sort of lost touch last few years, I am so glad to know she had such close loving people around her! I am still in shock she is gone ….
Brenda Walker-Butts, Fulton County says
It would be difficult to find a more compassionate and dedicated colleague. Together, we facilitated an employee emergency preparedness training class in November. Nadine had a skill for making a very serious subject like, ADA emergency preparedness protocols for persons with special needs, informative and engaging. I spoke with her a few days following the training class and what I’m now realizing would be our last conversation. In hindsight, the conversation was “different“ than the many previous discussions we shared. We LAUGHED so hard about everything and nothing. It was one of those gut busting, tears rolling types of laughter. Now I know why it was different and special. Rest well my friend and thank you for the added value you brought to the lives of many. My sincere condolences to your he Oka family.
Helena Aarts says
Nadine was an exceptional person – I consider myself incredibly lucky to have loved and learned from her. I wish I had more time to thank her for the many ways she cared for my sisters and myself, from giving us our first haircuts, child-proofing her furniture, buying junk food (almost always nestle drumsticks or Andes candies) for when we came over to play with Hershey, protecting us when we needed it most.
I will never forget the lessons of strength, perseverance, and generosity modeled by Nadine. Although I am remorseful that we will not get to have an adult relationship, I am grateful for the time we had together and hope to live in a way that would make her proud.
DeWayne Pinkney, Fulton County says
It was a joy to work with Nadine. Her passion for ADA compliance was second to none. I will always remember her cheerful spirit.
Condolences to the family and friends.
Dianne Fries says
I had the pleasure of working with Nadine on several projects in Fulton County. She was always professional and had an amazing ability to make you feel so comfortable while working . A heart of Gold. She will be sorely missed. I pray for her family and friends and hope they find comfort in all the wonderful memories of Nadine.
Marcus Traylor says
I will miss seeing Nadine around the county after so many years. It was a joy to listen to her and all of the training classes I attended that she was a part of. She was very knowledgeable, with a wonderful spirit. Rest well Nadine.
Paula Rafferty says
I am deeply saddened by the news of Nadine’s passing. The words that have been used here to describe her are all true. Like so many others, I worked with her at Fulton County. For a time, I was a lawyer in the Office of the County Attorney, and DCRC was one of my assigned departments. I know a good bit about implementing the ADA, but Nadine’s encyclopedic knowledge and sharp, analytical mind left me in the dust. She was indeed “no nonsense” when it came to the business of protecting and advocating for people with disabilities. It was an honor and a privilege to work with her. My heart goes out to her family and friends in what must be your shock and grief.
Erika Williams-Walker says
Nadine was a true gem and an fierce ADA advocate. I worked with her closely at Fulton County and she will be solely missed by every single person she encountered.
Marlene Shah says
My condolences to the Oka family. May God comfort and strengthen the Oka family during this time of bereavement. I never met Ms. Oka but we have conversed several times on an issue. She was kind and very professional. She was truly a champion for the disabled and their rights.
Nadine Williams, Fulton County says
Condolences to the family and friends.
I truly enjoyed working with her, she will be missed.
Douglass Bell says
Nadine was always kind, approachable, and a consummate professional. Her physical presence will be missed, but her kind smile and spirit will always be remembered. Rest In Peace, Nadine.
Veronica Rooks says
Ms. Oka was truly a servant to Fulton County Government! She was so passionate about the work she did and making each interaction count. She will truly be missed among her colleagues! My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Ms. Oka.
Joseph Banjoko says
Nadine a very helpful person. May her soul rest in Peace.
Katrina Kenner says
Nadine was a true team player far beyond any tool that measures. She is loved dearly and will be sadly missed.
Vickie Beene says
I am in shock to learn of Nadine’s passing! I was looking forward to continuing our discussion on serving the ADA community last March that would have been Fulton County library system’s first virtual program that included special needs topics. Pre-covid, she and I were both looking forward to working together to bring this program to fruition. Ms. Oka was such a knowledgeable, level-headed, calm and open-minded person. In the ADA for Supervisors class that she facilitated, she presented you with information, discussed the ramifications, Ms. Oka would lead you to the most logical and legal answer. She was an unapologetic advocate for people with disabilities and others who faced discriminatory issues.
As small in stature as she was, you knew she could handle her own (and you, if necessary). And after reading her biography regarding her passion for martial arts, I see why. My prayers are with her family and friends.
SHE WILL BE MISSED PERSONALLY AND PROFESSIONALLY.
Travel well, Nadine.
Alberta G. Nero says
Nadine was the consummate professional…very knowledgeable, very helpful and very timely. She also had a great sense of humor, so no matter what project you were working on, you knew you would enjoy working with her. May the wonderful memories you have of her help to ease your sorrow. We are keeping you in our prayers!
Alberta G. Nero says
Nadine was the consummate professional…very knowledgeable, very helpful and very timely. She also had a great sense of humor, so no matter what project you were working on, you knew you would enjoy working with her. May the wonderful memories you have of her help to ease your sorrow. We are keeping you in our prayers!
Melissa Oliver says
Ms. Nadine Oka was truly a great asset to Fulton County. My condolences go out to the family.
Nikki Yolanda Marchman says
Nadine was an amazing person inside and out. I loved our conversations and she was such a truth telling person! I TRULY appreciate her tenacity and eagerness to help others. She was a GREAT mentor and will be TRULY dearly missed!
Acar Nazli says
Those of us who worked with Nadine knew how tough but also how gentle, humorous and kind she was. I worked closely with her last few years and I am honored and privileged for that. We have lost a great human being and I lost a kindred soul. I wish her loved ones grace and patience to endure her loss. May she Rest In Peace!
Joshua Humphries says
Nadine was my ADA mentor and manager while employed with the Department of Diversity and Civil Right Compliance. Under her leadership I became the go to person for ADA trainings. Thanks Nadine for allowing me to shine as a ADA trainer in your unit. You will be missed.
Olinthia Angrum says
Nadine Oka was a gentle giant as she advocated for employees with disabilities. Always kind and professional. I will truly miss her.
Condolences to the family. Rest in Peace!
Kenny Cullings says
One day after years of passing each other as she was leaving work, She asked my name. We would speak and nod and wave as she was leaving and I was coming into the Fulton County building, Late in the afternoon. I always felt her pleasant vibe, That made it so easy to speak and at the light hold small conversations. This was us for so many years. Nadine will truly be missed.
June L. Neal-Fulton County says
I’ve had the pleasure to be in several of Nadine’s ADA emergency preparedness training classes for floor leaders and remember her as a very knowledgeable, professional and compassionate person in her teachings, she will be missed. My prayers and condolences to her family and the Department of Diversity and Civil Rights Compliance family.
Hasell D. Brown, Jr -- Fulton County Government says
…to hear that Nadine has transitioned to be with the saints brought tears to my eyes; a beautiful spirit and a fun-filled person, I’d speak to Nadine as we walked through the Government Center….and she would know not just who I was…..but what she could always get from me (SMILE!). Her smile is infectious….and if I had a problem, she’d give me the proper methodology as to how to handle it!!
May angels guide you to your deserved rest, Nadine; to the family: know that Nadine was loved by all here at Fulton County….and although the earthly light has been extinguished, her heavenly light radiates for all of us to see!!
Prayers, condolences….and tears to you; Nadine is missed by many!!
ROSLAND F SNEED says
To The Family Of Nadine Oka: Earth Has No Sorrows, That Heaven Can’t Heal. I’ve Had The Privilege Of Knowing Nadine, Through Early Voting @ Fulton County Elections & Registrations. When I Saw Your Picture, I Couldn’t Believe It. What A Lovely Person She Was. I Will Never Forget Her. Sleep On Nadine, And Take Your Rest. RIP Nadine !
Angela Ash, Fulton County says
The few times I interacted with Nadine, she was very kind and new her job well. My condolences to her family. Much peace!
Fran Phillips-Calhoun says
Nadine was a joy to work with at Fulton County Government. She was dedicated, thorough and always the ultimate professional. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Claudia Strange says
Well, what can I say that hasn’t already been said. Nadine was the consummate professional; smart, funny, kind and tough. Nadine always made time to call and check on me when I moved away from our main building at Fulton County and on to the library. She made time to come and meet me for lunch (Mexican, of course). In a true display of kindness, when I was pregnant with my first child she would bring me snacks to afternoon meetings. Even going so far as to add goldfish to my trail mix because she knew I liked it that way. Such a giving spirit. She loved advocating for people with disabilities. She loved her work, she loved her family. She will be sorely missed as a colleague, but mostly I will miss my friend. Sail on Nadine. I’ll look for you at the beach every time I visit.
Irene Bowen says
My condolences to Nadine’s friends and family. This is such sad and shocking news to the ADA community and those of us who worked, played, and learned with her through the National Association of ADA Coordinators. I met her in 1996 when I was working on the Atlanta Olympics accessibility issues at the Department of Justice, and then we worked together again two decades later on Fulton County matters. She was such a kind, fun, smart person dedicated to her family, her friends, and her work. She was always learning, always finding ways to do things better, challenging others with questions she had to deal with. Her passing leaves a hole in our hearts and our lives.
Lendel Bright says
Was so sorry to hear of Nadine passing. I met her several years ago attending National Association of ADA Coordinators national conferences. She was a wealth of knowledge and was truly dedicated to ADA issues and concerns. She will truly be missed. Being the ADA coordinator for city of St. Petersburg Florida , I could call her and talk about ADA issues and was provided with good execellent information and support
Tracy Jones says
I worked with Nadine at Atlanta Housing Authority and she was passionate about her work. We had an awesome spurt and was always willing to get her knowledge. May her soul be at rest. My condolences to her family. Rest In Peace .
Kaylan Dunlap says
Such a blessing to have had a chance to get to know Nadine. She had a knack for making me laugh and was always willing to share her knowledge with me – and anyone else that asked, I’m sure. I’ll always remember her as a very special person that made the world a better place. Actually, she still makes the world a better place because of the work that she did.
Rae Wright says
I had the honor and pleasure of working with Nadine at the Atlanta Housing Authority. She was kind and helpful from day one, and her passion and dedication as the ADA Coordinator are second to none. She made the world a better place, and it is no surprise that she is a fighter to the end. My sincere condolences to her family. She will be missed. Rest in Peace my friend.
Phong Nguyen says
My condolence to Nadine’s family. My heart is breaking to hear about her passing away in such a young age with so much to offer to our society as well as our ADA community. She is the most dedicated, hard working person that I know during my time with NAADAC. We were just welcome her into our board and she was going to add so much energy and enthusiasm to our organization. I love it when she would show up to my karaoke party at the NAADAC Conference and would sit there to enjoy and encouraging our “singers” to perform. Paul and I will miss you dearly. I am sure you will do a lot of good work up there.
Renee Lewis Glover says
Renee Lewis Glover
February 3, 2021, 7:37pm
My condolences to Nadine’s family, loved-ones and friends. I had the great privilege to work with Nadine during my tenure as CEO of the Atlanta Housing Authority. Pat Jones, the principal from Draper and Associates (who worked with AHA for more than 18 years) hired Nadine to help resolve the many ADA and accessibility challenges AHA confronted with its properties. Nadine became the lead in assisting AHA and our various partners in coming into compliance with the ADA requirements. I can say without fear of contradiction, that Nadine’s work was the primary reason that AHA and our partners were able to serve the families and persons with disabilities in a compassionate, professional and excellent manner through creative, excellent problem solving and integrity. Nadine was extraordinary and very impactful. She left an incredible legacy and the residents loved her for all that she did with excellence and love. I am certain that she is resting in heaven, God Bless.
Mike Galifianakis says
I am deeply saddened to learn of Nadine’s passing. I had the opportunity to work with her over the years in our respective roles as ADA Coordinators. Nadine was the consummate professional and always handled her responsibilities with diligence and grace. It was a privilege and pleasure to know her. She is missed.
My prayers are with Nadine’s family. May her memory be eternal.
Pam McIntire says
Nadine was one of those people you can never forget. I truly admired her for her kindness, commitment to friends, animals and life. She has made a lasting impression on my live and I will miss her presence here in this world. To her family and closest friends I send prayers that your fond memories of her last forever.
Marty Omoto says
With the pandemic and the confusion and isolation that encircled so many lives, we did not learn of Nadine Oka’s passing until today (November 27, 2021). We are saddened by her passing – and yet proud and comforted that her life, especially in Georgia, touched so many lives. She touched our too. She was our cousin – her dad Jiro was the youngest brother of my dad’s mother – my grandmother (Kuniyo Oka Omoto Ota) and though she technically was our second cousin – she and her siblings were in our age group and we considered ourselves first cousins and friends. Her brother Ron (Ronnie) was in my classes – and we were close then. We grew up together – our families. Nadine and her familyl lived nearby and we all went to the same elementary and junior high and high schools together. We were all part of the same family events – the holiday get togethers, the funerals, the weddings and more. We were close to her parents. She was funny and tough and caring. All those qualities – from what I can read about those who knew her in her later years – remained and grew stronger. Some things I did not know – we both shared a background and advoacy for people with disabilities (her work with the ADA and husing authorities and my work as a statewide disability rights advocate here in California based in California – CA Disability Community Action Network or CDCAN that includes working on housing issues and housing authorities). Her older cousin – my older sister Alana – had developmental and physical disabilities. Nadine was always kind to her and always included her – as her family did too. So Nadine grew up with her and us. I can’t remember the last time I saw Nadine – though my brother Larry saw her a few years ago at her mom’s funeral in Monterey, California. No matter the years or distance in miles that separated us from her – she will always be in our lives – as she will always be for so many she touched there in Fulton County. We will never forget her – and our love to everyone there – and most of all to to her brother Ron and sister Denise and immediate family and partner – and to the memory of her parents – our uncle Jiggs (Jiro) and auntie Mio. We love you Nadine – your cousin Marty (Omoto) Sacramento, CA
Helena says
Missing you dearly today and every day. Hung up some of her art in my new place where Evan and I will live once we are married in less than a couple weeks! Wish more than anything that you could be there, but I know you’re smiling down on us always.