Obituary of Arthur Tamaki

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Arthur (“Art”) Eiji Tamaki on February 17^th, 2022, at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto.

Much loved husband of Thelma Tamaki for 47 years, wonderful father to Lisa (Steve McGran) and Julie (Jeff Vanderby), and very proud grandfather of Owen McGran. Art was predeceased by his loving parents Fumi and Hideo Tamaki. Brother of Danny, Naomi (Tad), Sachi (Ken), George (Lynn), and Diane. Brother-in-law to Jim (deceased), Debbie (Ken), David (Tammy), Heather (Gary, deceased). Much-loved uncle to Stacey, Keri (John), Jeff, Jarrett (Kirsty), Leslie (Marc), Corbin (Melissa), Andrea (Matt), Tamara (Brian), Jenna, Leah, Erika, and Rachel (Ben).  Friend to so, so many.

Art was born on January 29, 1946, on a beet farm in Lorette, Manitoba during the expulsion of Japanese Canadians from the West Coast of Canada. The family’s love and determination allowed them to persevere through difficult times and Art’s hard work and talent for numbers enabled him to transcend those humble origins.

Art spent his early years at Queen Alexandra Middle School in Toronto (a school he would support later in life by creating an annual academic award for its students) and attended Riverdale Collegiate. A lover of music, Art was an enthusiastic member of the Toronto Optimists Drum and Bugle Corps.  He was a long time member and active participant in the St James Bond United Church community.

Art studied Commerce and Finance at the University of Toronto at Innis College (1969). He received his CA designation at Clarkson, Gordon & Co. and spent over 24 years of his professional life at The Bata Shoe Company, ending his career as global Chief Financial Officer.

At 57, he decided to retire early, so that he and Thelma could enjoy life to its fullest. For 19 years, Art spent summers at the cottage he had proudly built himself, winters in Naples trying to golf, and spring and fall exploring the world on countless trips. 

Art will be missed for his quick wit and sly sense of humour, his kindness, intelligence, and integrity, and his ever-present smile.

“He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who has left the world better than he found it…”  (Bessie A. Stanley)

We will all miss him so very much.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation. Art felt strongly about giving back to the community, particularly to those less fortunate.  Red Door Family Shelter and Haven Toronto are two organizations local to Art and Thelma that do this well. Alternatively, you could make a donation to the charity of your choice in his memory.