The local beer community suffered a major loss to begin the work week as longtime Pacific Western Brewing owner Kazuko Komatsu passed away on Monday.
According to the company’s website, she had owned the brewery for the past 27 years since buying in 1991 when PWB was suffering from financial troubles.
After Kazuko took ownership of the company she invested in improving the brewing process with a constant eye on making quality beer.
Kazuko celebrated her 25th anniversary as brewery owner in 2016 where they celebrated their 60th year of beer making in Prince George.
She was born in Japan and moved to Canada with her family in the 1970’s.
Kazuko Komatsu built a strong business & brand in #CityofPG over her many years. @pwbrewing now stands strong in the absence of their leader. On behalf of the team @PGChamber1, I would like to pass along our sincere condolences to the entire team & Komatsu family on her passing
— Todd C (@PGChamberCEO) July 31, 2018
Saddened to hear of Kazuko Komatsu’s passing. My condolences to her friends and family. The @UNBC flags will be lowered to honour this tremendous supporter of our University.
— Daniel J. Weeks (@DanielJWeeks1) July 31, 2018