COLUMBUS
On Thursday, January 12, 2023, Noriko Kaneko Binkley passed away. She was 89 years old. Born to Kunitaro and Sato Kaneko in Tokyo, Japan, Noriko was a survivor of the Tokyo fire bombings during World War II. After the war, she met and married John Frey Binkley, Jr., when he was stationed in Tokyo during the Korean conflict. They were married for 70 years and resided in Japan, Florida, and New Jersey, where Noriko became an American citizen. They settled in Columbus with four children where they lived for the last 57 years.
Noriko was a gifted artist with paints, crafts, and food, and worked as a sushi chef for many years. She served as a translator, bringing Japanese businesses to Columbus, and helped many Japanese families adjust to American culture. She loved bridge, travel, hiking, gardening, and watching wildlife at her bird feeder.
Noriko also became a Columbus Human Rights commissioner after the passing of her younger son, Paul Binkley, from HIV/AIDS. She is also preceded in death by her brother, Seizo Kaneko, who died on a visit to Columbus.
She is survived by her husband, John; daughters, Susan Binkley of St. Paul, MN., Linda Binkley of Arlington, VA.; son, John Frey Binkley III, of Vero, FL.; eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
In keeping with the family’s request, cremation will take place and no memorial service is planned at this time.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the Binkley family at barkesweaverglick.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Barkes, Weaver &Glick Funeral Home.
