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Support the Tanaka Family

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Earlier this summer, Makoto Tanaka , 49, a dear friend and member of our Lexington community, passed away suddenly of a pulmonary embolism. Makoto leaves behind his wife, Yoko, and three children, Hina, Yuki, and Tora, all in Lexington middle school and high school. You may recognize Makoto as the devoted and friendly dad who spent hours at the ice hockey rink, who attended every concert, conference or activity for his children, and who always had time to chat with friends, new or old. He is deeply missed.

Through their continuing grief, the family is trying to manage each day. They are now faced with financial obligations and insecurity, as Makoto was the only income source for the family.  In partnership with Lexington's Neighbor Brigade, friends of the family have created this fundraiser to give Yoko and the children some stability and comfort, as they are forced to make decisions about housing and whether they can remain in Lexington, the family's longtime home. They are in need of help to manage expenses, including those below,  as they figure out this painful transition. 

Mortgage 
Utilities - heat, electricity, gas, internet, phones
Food and clothing for the family 
Health insurance 
Children/Teen activities: hockey, art supplies  
Education expenses - current middle school, high school for two, and future college for 3 children 

We hope you can consider making a donation in any amount to support Yoko and her three children.  Thank you so much!

Makoto's obituary can be found here. Obituary of Makoto Tanaka 
Article about Makoto from Lexington Wicked Local  Wicked Local article on Makoto 

*Please note that an earlier fundraiser, which has now ended, was organized by a co-worker of Makoto's and was shared mostly in his business community. If you have already donated, we thank you.  Since then, numerous needs have arisen and the family needs additional support to manage these difficult times.

 

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Donations 

  • Ruben Lee
    • $120 
    • 2 yrs
  • Stanley Cheng
    • $200 
    • 3 yrs
  • Anri Seki
    • $100 
    • 3 yrs
  • Chunyoku Takahashi
    • $210 
    • 3 yrs
  • Anonymous
    • $200 
    • 3 yrs
Donate

Organizer and beneficiary

Henrietta Yelle
Organizer
Lexington, MA
Yoko Tanaka
Beneficiary

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