Shizuko Tanabe's Obituary
Shizuko Kaneshiro Tanabe came into this world on June 21, 1927 in Lahaina, Maui, to Tampei and Uto Kaneshiro. On March 6th, 2026 at the age of 98, she left us to return home to heaven, to be with her loved ones. She was a resident of Kahului, Maui. She was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in the Kahului 1st Ward.
She had many hobbies and interests that kept her busy all her life. She loved: dancing, singing, sewing, making floral arrangements, playing scrabble and puzzles, playing sports, photography, doing family genealogy, cooking, and especially making Maki sushi.
She was married to James Tanabe, who passed away when she was 41 years old. At this age, she enrolled in Maui Community College, where she earned an Associate of Arts degree and sharpened her secretarial skills. She began working for various County offices. In 1985, the County of Maui, Mayor Tavares, named her the “Employee of the Year”. She retired from the County of Maui after 31 years of service.
She is survived by Joycelyn Pukahi (Daniel), Lynne Mateaki Hong (Sedanne), Geraldine Akagi, Kell Tanabe (Leni), Adrienne Akiona, 29 Grandchildren, 108 Great-Grandchildren, 27 Great-Great-Grandchildren, 1 Great-Great-Great-Grandchild, many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Her story comes to an end, only in this world, as families are forever. Her posterity lives on and will remember her forever.
What’s your fondest memory of Shizuko?
What’s a lesson you learned from Shizuko?
Share a story where Shizuko's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Shizuko you’ll never forget.
How did Shizuko make you smile?

