Michael Tanaka

Born in Chicago, Illinois, he was the son of the late Masaya and Frances (Suzuki) Tanaka and the nephew of the late Edith Suzuki.

Michael was the brother of the late Namie (Tanaka) Smith and the beloved uncle of the late Theresa Smith.

He is survived by nieces Jennifer (Andy and Willow) Nyland and Stephanie (Grant, Anna, and Maggie) Kirker, nephew Britton (Jennie, Britton, Alexis, and Carine) Smith, and a network of friends across the country whom he considered family.

We will have a memorial event "Honoring Mike Tanaka" on June 11, 2023 at Nick-A-Nees, 75 South Street, Providence, RI. 4-8pm with music celebrating the varied styles Uncle Michael performed: jazz, blues, country, and rock. Jazz Mike was known for the Low Key 3 and Mike Tanaka & Friends. Blues Mike played with Paula Clare Blues. Country Mike played in Biscuit City. Rock Mike performed with Dino Club. Musician friends are helping the family to bring back some of his sound to the world. We hope folks are able to join us to remember and celebrate Mike Tanaka.