TANAKA, BYRON September 13,1924 - July 1, 2023. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Byron Mitsuaki Hojo Tanaka, in his 99th year, at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 71 years, Shirley Ayako (Morita). Loving father of Rod (Stacey), Vaughn (Sandy), and Alison (Bruce). Cherished Granddaddy/Ojii-chan to Lauren Noriko, Justin Taisei, Russell Tokimitsu, Natalie Masako, and Meiji Hojo. Survived by his dear sister, Sumire Shintani and predeceased by his parents, Tokikazu Hojo and Kizue Tanaka, sister Naomi and her husband Edward Sanji Chiba and brother-in-law William Mitsuru Shintani. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
Byron was born in Cumberland, BC, and grew up in New Westminster. His admission to University of British Columbia was terminated by the outbreak of World War ll. His father was forcibly taken away and sequestered while the rest of the family was ordered to evacuate, relocating to Kaslo and then to Tashme, where he met Shirley, whom he married on September 22, 1951.
In 1945, he moved to Chatham, Ontario and later settled in Toronto in 1947. As an accountant, he was employed by Curran and Briggs, The Ontario Jockey Club, The Imasco Group and eventually retired from Black & McDonald in December 1991.
Byron was an avid fisherman and loved spending his time fishing and relaxing at the cottage with his family in Parry Sound. He was passionate about sports and enjoyed baseball, bowling, and tennis. He had a compassion for all living creatures, caring for different pets from childhood and well into retirement. Byron was a devoted, loving, wonderful and attentive father and husband with strong family values, always putting his family first. He was extremely proud of his Japanese heritage but also was very proud to be Canadian. So, it is most fitting indeed that he passed away on Canada Day with fireworks to commemorate his life.
Heartfelt thanks to the Healthcare team at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital for their compassionate care.
As per Byron's wishes, a private family service to celebrate his life was held.
In lieu of flowers or koden, those wishing to donate in memory of Byron are asked to consider the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, Momiji Health Care Society, or the Cummer Avenue United Church.
Arrangements Entrusted to Peaceful Transition York (2-16236 Yonge Street, Aurora) and condolences may be forwarded through www.peacefultransition.ca
James Cindy and Warren Jung
Posted on: Saturday, August 19, 2023To Alison, Bruce and family – Although our fathers lived a long and happy life it is still a great loss. May all the wonderful memories help you through this difficult time. Sending our love to all of you…
Janine Munro
Posted on: Tuesday, August 22, 2023I just saw that your dear father passed away. My sincere condolences. You don’t know me, but your father worked with my mother Jennie Wionzek for a number of years at OJC.
I remember my mother speaking highly if your father. He was kind and encouraging to her, a widow with two very young children .. re entering the workforce out of necessity at a time when many women were stay at home moms.
My heartfelt prayers and sympathy to your family.