Tadao “Tad” Tanaka of Seattle, WA died surrounded by family on January 8, 2018 in Arlington Heights. He was 92 years old. He was a resident of Mt. Prospect since 1962.
Tad is preceded in death by his father Joseph Nobuo, mother Masuko (nee Tomita), sister Yoneko Takami, brother Takao, and son Larry. He is survived by his wife Judy Minako (nee Nakao), daughters Susan (Jon) Deckrow and Katherine. Grandchildren Robin Karstenson, Scott (Jessica) Deckrow and Shannon (Adam) McCullough. Great-grandchildren Jonathan, Mackenzie Karstenson and another due in February.
Tad enlisted in the U.S. Army during WWII and served in the 442nd Infantry Regiment.
Following the war, Tad and his family moved to Chicago. That’s where he met his wife Judy. The two married July 31, 1949.
Tad worked in steel stamping for many years and went on to co-own Gen-O-Ral Corp located in downtown Chicago. He also was an avid bowler. Tad became a member of the Japanese National Bowling Association (JANBA) in 1965. He later became a board member and in 2007 was inducted into the JANBA Hall of Fame. In later years, Tad’s morning routine included a trip to the YMCA followed by breakfast with the “Y” guys
Tad also was a member of the VA and VFW. He received the Victory Medal, American Theater Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, Army of Occupation Medal Germany, Good Conduct Medal, and Overseas Service Bar for his service in WWII.
Tad passed away peacefully at the hospital from natural causes.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 12, 2018 from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Friedrichs Funeral Home 320 W. Central Rd (at Northwest Highway), Mt Prospect, IL 60056.
Donations will be accepted by Lattof YMCA in memory of Tadao Tanaka in lieu of flowers: 300 Northwest Hwy, Des Plaines, IL 60016 (847)296-3376.