Richard Tanaka

Richard Masao Tanaka, originally from Hilo, Hawaii, died on Saturday, October 21, 2017, at his current residence in San Jacinto, California. Richard, also known to family and friends as "Sonny Boy", was born on March 25,1940 in Hilo, Hawaii. He was the son of the late Toshiyuki Tanaka and the late Marie Camacho.

In 1962, he met the love of his life, Clorinda Rodrigues, who he married on December 26, 1964. Later, they had a wonderful daughter, Melani, who then married Billy Shores and gave Richard three amazing grandchildren, William "Sonny" Shores IV, Leeana Shores and Lillian Shores. From 1969-1979 Richard owned a 76 Gas Station, and during his earlier years he was part of Pathfinders, a youth group in the Seventh Day Adventist church.

Richard was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved his family dearly and was always worried for their well-being. He enjoyed fishing, playing hanafuda (Japanese playing cards), and going to car shows for American cars. Sports were never a part of Richard's life but when it came to his grandchildren's baseball and volleyball games, he became a fanatic. Often described as a "lovable grouch", Richard was known for being stubborn and frugal but at the same time, mischievous and goodhearted. Richard's low speaking voice was a stark contrast to his high pitch belly laugh that made everyone laugh so hard that they would forget what they were laughing about in the first place. He was also known as the "Mayor of Napa Court" or the "Neighborhood Watchman" as he was always keeping an eye on his neighborhood from the comfort of his rocking chair in his garage. Richard loved Hawaiian and Japanese food, especially poke and chili pepper water, but would turn his nose up at Mexican or Italian food. Everyone will miss him dearly, but as he would often say when there was a lull in conversation, "Oh well, that's how it goes".

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.miller-jones.com