Robert Shoichi Tanaka

One of 6 siblings, he grew up on Beacon Hill in Seattle and was later incarcerated at Minidoka, Idaho, during the war. First attending Broadway High School in Seattle, he later graduated from Hunt High School in Idaho. Trying to find his way, he enlisted in the Army and then went to Cornish Art School on the GI Bill to earn his art degree. Robert became an Art Director for the Cole & Weber advertising agency working for over 35 years on major accounts including Boeing, Weyerhaeuser, Alaska Airlines, and other Northwest companies until he retired in 1995. Married to the love of his life, Toyo, for over 65 years, they raised three children. His famous saying was, "The family that plays together stays together", and so they did play a lot, going on family outings almost every weekend. He enjoyed golf, bowling, watching his local sports teams, reading the newspaper, playing the horses and the slots, but mostly he just liked being with family.

Robert was preceded in death by daughter, Sandra, siblings, George, Yone, Nobi (Itsuko), Kimi, and Sumi Ishida (Kay), close work friends, and the "El Jabos", who were eleven Japanese boys that formed an investment club in their youth. Although they went "belly-up" very quickly, they did become rich from their close, lifelong friendships.

Robert is survived by his wife, Toyo, children, Sheryl Anderson (Alan), Russell (Marie), David (Lori), grandkids, Ryan (Stephanie), Matthew (Melissa), Erin, Ana, Brayden, great-grandkids, Logan and Oakley, sister-in-law, Keiko Taki, and many nieces and nephews.

We'll all miss your sense of humor, your wit, your laughter, and your smile. Love you Pops!

Remembrances may be sent to the Nisei Veteran’s Committee, Densho, or to your favorite charity.

There will be no service. A private burial was held for the immediate family.