Junkoh Harui, of Bainbridge Island, died peacefully on Oct. 19 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was 75.

Born on Bainbridge on June 23, 1933, Junkoh grew up amidst the natural beauty of pre-war Bainbridge Gardens.

He graduated from Bainbridge High School in 1951 and the University of Washington in 1955, becoming a life-long Husky fan. While in college, Junkoh met his wife, Christina.

In 1958, Junkoh and Chris opened the island’s first florist, Town and Country Florist in Winslow. As the business grew, Junkoh and Chris added a nursery and moved to a larger location which became well-known along State Route 305.

In 1989, Junkoh and Chris moved the nursery to its present location, the site where Junkoh grew up, renovating the site and renaming the business Bainbridge Gardens.

This year, Junkoh and Chris celebrated 50 years of marriage and 50 years of business on Bainbridge Island.

Junkoh’s love of the garden and his commitment to his customers allowed him to share the beauty of nature with generations of Bainbridge Islanders.

He was known for his involvement and leadership in countless community projects and events. He is credited for inspiring many to seek their talents and follow their dreams and was respected and admired by many in the community.

Junkoh is survived by his wife, Chris; children Donna Harui of Bainbridge Island, Alex (Cynthia), of Foster City, Calif., Roger (Greta) of Seattle, and Sandra (John Vanderzanden) of Seattle; sister Terry Marlatt, of Reno, Nev.; brothers Norio, of Seattle and Hiro (Kumiko), of Wenatchee; and five grandchildren, Sam and Leah Bouillon, Ella and Alise Vanderzanden, and Nolan Harui.

A celebration of Junkoh’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Nov. 8 at Sakai Intermediate School.

An online guest book is at www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.