Major Walter T. Tanimoto, U.S. Army (Ret.), a distinguished veteran, volunteer, and father, passed away in the early hours of June 22, 2024. His life was marked by service, dedication, and a commitment to community.
Walt was preceded in death by his father, Atsushi. He is survived by his mother, Kumiko, his wife of 39 years, Lori, their three children, Christopher, Jennifer, and Michael, and granddaughter, Abigail.
Born in Hawaii on January 16, 1962, Walt split his early years between the United States and Japan. He graduated from Lake Washington High School and was an ROTC student at Seattle University. In 1984, after obtaining a degree in history, he was commissioned into the U.S. Army as an Armor Officer.
Walt served in Operation Iraqi Freedom II, earning numerous awards, including a Combat Infantryman Badge. After retiring from the Army, he transitioned to civilian life, embarking on a long and impactful career at the Washington Department of Revenue.
Beyond his professional achievements, Walt was deeply committed to supporting his fellow veterans. He actively participated in several veterans’ organizations and had leadership roles in the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Nisei Veterans Committee, and the Military Order of the Cootie, and he was a life member of the American Legion.
A funeral and reception will be at St John the Baptist Catholic Church in Covington, WA on 9 August beginning at 1100hrs. Walt will be laid to rest with Military Honors at Tahoma National Cemetery on 9 August 2024 at 1500hrs. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the VFW.
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