Hiroko Mori

The friends and family of Hiroko Mori are saddened to share that Hiroko passed from this planet on October 3, 2025. Born June 11, 1971, she was a longtime resident of Bloomington, Indiana, where she gave birth to her amazing son, Elliot, contributed to her community, built bridges, and spoke truth about all that she found sacred in this world. Hiroko is survived by her son, Elliot, and her mother, Michiko Tsujimura Mori, and was preceded in death by her father, Haruhide Mori. She leaves behind several family members in Japan as well as multiple dear friends and colleagues across the United States and beyond. She is deeply missed by many, as Hiroko lifted and supported the voices of many in the art and business communities. She was a bright light among her friends, many of whom shared a love of houseplants, nature, and meaningful connections centered on the sacredness of life. Hiroko was born in Kobe City, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan. She immigrated to the United States in 1995, shortly after the Kobe earthquake, which profoundly impacted her spirit. Hiroko came to the United States with a passion to create a life for herself that embodied all that she valued. Hiroko was an avid learner throughout her life, from formal to informal studies. She held multiple degrees, including a Master of Arts in French linguistics from Kwansei Gakuin University and a Master of Arts in Japanese Pedagogy from Indiana University. Hiroko’s early career involved working as a freelance translator, becoming much sought after for her skills and fluency in Japanese, French, and English. Her entrepreneurial spirit continued throughout her life and inspired the creativity and ambition of others. Hiroko went on to build a career as a director of sales and marketing at Yasui-Seiki-MIRWEC Coating, where she worked for 12 years. She was both capable and determined in her work, and colleagues described her as both decisive and driven, yet she modeled the importance of relationships. Hiroko’s own work-life balance, as well as her history of self-employment, enabled her to model healthy boundaries while encouraging colleagues to prioritize family relationships, despite professional demands. Hiroko’s son, Elliot, was the center of her universe. She often claimed that becoming a mother made her a better person. Elliot and Hiroko enjoyed many adventures together, which included their shared love of nature and travel. Her friends cannot recall a time when Hiroko did not beam with pride when she talked about her son. She often said, “I cannot believe I was blessed with such an amazing being. How did this happen?” While she asked this question, her friends could only turn the conversation back to her and Elliot’s father, Andrew, about the love and care Elliot has received throughout his life, to which Hiroko would always humbly redirect the conversation and not take credit. This is characteristic of Hiroko’s humility. This graceful, determined, talented soul would never bring attention to herself, but those who know her can attest to the gifts and love that she brought to this planet. Hiroko’s friends and family will miss her kindness, spiritual depth, strength, and her ability to make meaning out of life’s challenges. When Hiroko faced a struggle, she would take that struggle and find a way to lift and support others. This was evidenced by her beginning a Facebook group after her son’s birth for mothers who struggled with breastfeeding and made the decision to pump exclusively, called “Exclusively Pumping Moms,” which began in 2011. This group was started for eight moms in the community and grew to over 2500 members worldwide. Guests at Hiroko’s home would feel as if they passed through a magical garden at her patio entrance, as few could nurture plants like their host. That magic continued throughout her home as plants, stones, and statuary all held meaning, and one could not miss the sacredness with which she created her home sanctuary. Hiroko shared her love of houseplants on Facebook, offering advice through a houseplant group she founded, which has grown to over 400 members. It was not unusual to hear a community member say, “Oh, Hiroko, I have one of her plants!” which always made her friends smile. Ever a creative spirit and gifted artist, Hiroko was drawn to the study of pottery and was a skilled baker. Her many friends benefited from her jewelry-making and pottery, often receiving handmade gifts imbued with Hiroko’s love. Hiroko could create a delicious dish or baked good based on anyone’s dietary needs. Again, we would all note her humility as an artist, baker, and creator of beauty. Additionally, Hiroko enjoyed attending rock and mineral shows, and many beautiful stones blessed her home. Hiroko was a Reiki practitioner and a certified Joy Potential coach. Her grace, determination, and calm presence reminded us all that choosing love in every situation is always possible. A celebration of life will be held for Hiroko when the weather warms, as we know Hiroko would have loved to be celebrated on a beautiful sunny day when friends can gather outdoors and marvel at the beauty of spring or summer. Until then, those who love her note her love of the amazing non-profit, My Sister’s Closet, and ask that you consider a donation in her name. https://sisterscloset.org/donate/ As a humble spirit, Hiroko left this earth, not likely knowing how many lives she touched. Her friends and family can hope, now that she is in spirit, that she can truly see the impact of the love she radiated. She was a private person, which left many surprised about her passing. However, may this tribute to Hiroko remind you of her many gifts, her soulful being, her loving heart, and her advice not to put off creating the joy, art, or connections that will nurture your soul. She would also remind us to love each other, create safe and loving homes, give to our communities, and marvel at the beauty of nature.

Tributes

Hiroko Mori

June 11, 1971 - October 3, 2025