Raymond M. Tanaka, 89 years young, peacefully passed at his home on August 18, 2021. His final days were filled with love, surrounded by family.Born and raised in Honolulu, Ray graduated from McKinley High School in 1950. After graduation, he proudly served in the U.S. Army in Japan and Korea. He then returned home to Hawaii and for many years helped to lead his family's business, J.M. Tanaka Construction, which built many important projects in Hawaii, including the Pali Tunnel, the Waikiki Shell, and many roads, highways, bridges and subdivisions throughout the State. Ray later had a business doing excellent landscaping and irrigation work. Until recently, Ray loved helping to keep yards and gardens thriving for a few lucky friends and family members.
In his younger days, Ray loved playing cards, golfing, bowling, and singing. In his later years, he loved watching golf, volleyball, football and most other sports, while sipping his Coors Light on ice (precisely two cans a day), a fudgesicle and cup of coffee to follow. Ray also proudly watched his grandchildren grow and loved seeing them excel at sports.
Ray embraced life to its fullest, had a knack for looking at the bright side of things, and had a wide and wonderful smile. And his hair was always perfect. He made those around him happy because he had the zest for life.
Ray is survived by a family that loves him so much: his wife Judith, to whom he was married for forty-one years; two daughters, Brenda (Lisa) and Joy (Richard); two sons, Scott (Eve) and Jason (Shirley); nine grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and sisters Patsy (Ken) and Leonora. Ray was predeceased by his son, Reginald.
Ray will be laid to rest at Punchbowl National Cemetery.
Private services will be held.
Arrangements Provided By:
Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC
