Born on December 11, 1919, to Ichiro and Katsu Inouye, Sakaye grew up in Gardena, California, where her parents owned and operated a family nursery. Growing up, Sakaye was actively involved with the family business and dedicated her time to helping however she could. When she was 11 years old, her sister Vicki was born. Sakaye had always wanted a sibling, so she was thrilled when Vicki came along. She continue to work at the nursery until the beginning of World War II at which point their family was interned at Poston, Arizona.

It was during this time that she met George Aratani, her future husband. They kept in touch, exchanging countless letters until George was relocated from Gila Arizona to Minneapolis Minnesota to join the Military Intelligence Service. At that time, George contacted Sakaye and asked that she join him in Minneapolis.  Shortly thereafter they exchange vows and welcomed their first daughter Donna.  Their journey eventually led them back to Los Angeles where Linda completed their family.

They lived in the Hollywood Hills with their mother-in-law Masako, a Chanoyu Sensei (tea ceremony master) and tea ceremonies continue to be held in their special tea room for over 50 years.

Together George and Sakaye forged the legacy of success in both business and philanthropy. Sakaye‘s heart was always devoted to serving others. She believed in the dignity of each person and always chose to see the best in every person and situation.  Post-war, through the Japan America Society, she spearheaded a plan to enable Japanese war widows to economically support themselves. She continued to serve in California throughout her life. She was a lifelong advocate of the Japan America Society promoting Japan-US relations, a founding member of the Montebello Japanese Women’s Club, and the first woman to serve on the board of the Sumitomo Bank of California.

Sakaye and George’s legacy lives on in their two daughters, seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.