Teruo "Teddy" Tanaka

On November 24, 2025, the world became a little less brilliant with the passing of Teruo (Teddy) Tanaka, age 95, in Casper, Wyoming. Known for his quick smile, storytelling and infectious laughter, Teddy touched countless lives throughout his long and remarkable journey.

Ted was born in Los Angeles, California to Shima (Okajima) and Heijiro Tanaka on September 7, 1930. He graduated from Venice (CA) High School in 1950. As a veteran of the U.S. Army, he served with honor and integrity during the Korean War. In 1956, he joined the family business, Tanaka Bros, with his father and brothers to farm vegetables in Oxnard, California. His favorite pastime was to socialize at Bingo and travel with family around America. His most adventurous trip, at age 85, was white water rafting down Clear Creek near Idaho Springs, Colorado.

Ted was a devoted father to Lonnie Tanaka, Titia Tanaka Leisz and Laura Tanaka; loving husband to his wife Barbara; and proud grandfather to six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Ted is preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; his parents; siblings Henry, Shigeo, Tadao, Akira, Chizuko and Hideko; and is survived by his youngest sister, Misako Burton of Camarillo, California.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Central Wyoming Senior Center, 1831 East 4th Street, Casper, Wyoming 82601, 307-265-4678.

To share a memory of Teddy or leave a special message for the family, please visit the guestbook below.