Sata Mizukami, the oldest living person in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, passed away in Sakuho on 27 November, at the age of 112 years, 246 days. Her passing was first reported by the Shinano Mainichi Shimbun.
Mizukami was born in Sakuho, on 26 March 1912, as the second daughter among six siblings. After graduating from elementary school, she developed a passion for sewing and honed her skills while assisting with household chores at her home. In her early twenties, she married a farmer, with whom she raised four children.
Her family said that she was a very hard worker. She cultivated rice in the paddies, tended to the vegetable fields, and applied her sewing expertise to prepare all the clothing and bedding for her household. In her 60s, she underwent surgery for uterine fibroids. Until her husband passed away at the age of 90, the couple occasionally traveled to hot springs. Up to the age of 103, sewing and tending to the garden remained her daily routines. Around that time, she was admitted to a nursing home after sustaining burns from a brazier. It was reported that she had a preference for fish over meat.
In September 2023, she was reported as the oldest living person in Nagano Prefecture. The Prefecture has not yet announced its new oldest living resident.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Sata Mizukami during this difficult time.
