Florence Yoshie Tanigawa

Florence Yoshie Tanigawa, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025. She loved her family first and foremost, devoting her life to raising her five children and later cherishing every moment with her eleven grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Her passions were simple but full of heart: nurturing her children and grandchildren, tending to her plants, flowers, and garden, hosting family gatherings, decorating birthday cakes, and filling her home with the smell of home-cooked meals and the sweetness of See’s dark chocolate nuts and chews. Baking, cooking, and caring for others were the ways she expressed her deep love.

Florence was strong, gracious, kind, and unconditionally loving. She never complained, met life's challenges with quiet perseverance, and always found joy in a good party and a full house. Her spirit was a beautiful blend of resilience and warmth.

A proud graduate of the University of Denver’s School of Nursing, Florence brought her compassionate spirit to her family, her work, and her community.

She was preceded in death by her father, Shinichi Matsuda; her mother, Torie Matsuda; her sister, Karen Jones; and her beloved husband, Jack Tanigawa.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild:

● Cheryl Hiraoka (Steven)

○ Michael Hiraoka (Rebecca)

■ Takeo Hiraoka

○ Mylie Hiraoka

● Lori Shikuma (Craig)

○ Anna Shikuma

○ Christopher Shikuma

● David Tanigawa (Debby)

○ Bryan Tanigawa

○ Ally Tanigawa

● Marilyn Suson (David)

○ Melanie Suson

○ Jack Suson

○ Jennifer Suson

● John Tanigawa

○ Florence Tanigawa

○ Jane Tanigawa

She is also survived by her siblings:

● Shirley Iwahiro (Herb)

● Jane Yamasaki (George)

● Maureen Takeuchi (Takao)

● Greg Jones

● Melvin Matsuda

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you keep her spirit alive by gathering with loved ones, sharing a home-cooked meal, or tending to a garden in her memory.

A private family viewing and graveside service will be held to celebrate her life.