With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our dear friend and respected sake professional, Patsy Lu, who left this world unexpectedly in Japan, peacefully in her sleep. For many in the sake community and far beyond, Patsy was so much more than a sommelier. She was a warm and generous soul whose passion for Japanese sake culture flowed through everything she did. With her deep knowledge, her enthusiasm, her kindness, and her naturally cheerful spirit, she introduced countless people to the beauty of sake, the rituals of tasting, and the feeling of belonging that comes with it.

Patsy did not simply pour sake. She created moments of connection. She honored tradition, uplifted others, and brought people together with grace and sincerity. She embodied the true spirit of sake itself: warmth, hospitality, craftsmanship, and respect. Her dedication and the joy she shared touched so many lives, and her absence leaves a profound and aching silence.

Patsy leaves behind her children and family, who now face this painful loss with heavy hearts. We hope to honor her legacy by supporting them through the difficult days ahead.

Contributions will help:

Our wish is to surround her family with the same compassion and generosity that Patsy offered to everyone she met. Every donation, no matter the size, and every share of this page will make a meaningful difference.

Thank you for helping preserve Patsy’s legacy, for standing with her family, for supporting the community she cherished so deeply, and for honoring a life devoted to bringing people together over a thoughtful cup of sake.