Gloria Hiratsuka Obituary Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 12, 2024. Gloria Ann Hiratsuka, née Hightower, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2024, in Anchorage, Alaska, at the age of 76. Born on May 19, 1948, in Castleford, Idaho, she was a beacon of love and joy throughout her life. Gloria was a devoted member of various religious communities, including the Alaska Moravian Churches in Bethel, Dillingham, and Anchorage, as well as the Hillcrest Nazarene, Valdez Nazarene, and the Jewel Lake Nazarene Churches. With her husband, Mark Hiratsuka, she directed youth programs for the Bethel/Dillingham Moravian Churches and Hillcrest Church of the Nazarene. Her faith and dedication to her community were profound and unwavering. Educated at Marion Elementary School, Cascade High School, and George Fox College, Gloria's passion for learning was evident in her pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. She carried this passion into every aspect of her life, particularly in nurturing her family. Gloria's home was filled with the aromas of her cooking and the sounds of old shows, which she loved to watch with her husband, Mark, her partner of fifty-four years. Shopping sprees with her grandchildren were among her favorite pastimes, creating joyful memories cherished by all who knew her. Gloria is survived by her loving husband, Mark Hiratsuka; children, Mary Beth Mazilo (Dmitry), Aaron Hiratsuka (Rosemarie); Grandchildren: Alexanderia Hiratsuka, Jewel Hiratsuka, RiRi Hiratsuka, Micheal Hiratsuka, Perez Hiratsuka and Kai Mazilo and her Great Grandchild Solana Reign. She also leaves behind her brothers, Melvin (Linda) and Rick Dennis as well as several generations of Cousin, Nephews, and Nieces. Gloria was preceded in death by her children, Micheal and Charity Ann Hiratsuka; siblings, Joyce Ruth, Wesley Dennis, John Hightower; loving adoptive parents James and Mae Ella Hightower, and parents Wesley Dennis and Nora Lee Trenbeath. Services will be held at the First Covenant Church of Anchorage, located at 1145 C Street, Anchorage, AK 99501. Legacy Funeral Home in Anchorage, Alaska, is assisting the family with arrangements. Viewing at 11:30-12:30 followed by service and burial at 3pm at Angelus Memorial Park. Gloria's legacy of love, faith, and community service will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will forever be cherished and celebrated by her family, friends, and all the lives she touched. Memory Eternal.