Tatsuo Okamura

DR. TATSUO OKAMURA passed away at the hospital on October 13, 2021 in Lethbridge, Alberta. "Tats" battled, for the last two years, to recover from a knee replacement. He approached most challenges in life with hard work, perseverance and a never quit attitude. Unfortunately, despite all of his efforts he was unable to regain his independent lifestyle.

Tats was born in Strawberry Hill (Delta), British Columbia in 1936. The Okamura family was sent to Elie, Manitoba during the relocation of Japanese Canadians from BC.  Tats grew up in Winnipeg where he completed his dental degree at the University of Manitoba in 1964.  He was the youngest of 6 born to Mitsu and Magoichi Okamura.  Tats was predeceased by brothers Mas / Yoshiyuki / Yukio and sisters, Kim / Chiyeko.  He is survived by 2 sisters-in-law, Kiyo Okamura (Mas), Jean Okamura (Yukio) and his many nieces & nephews.

Tats always spoke fondly of his life and friends in Winnipeg.  He moved to Lethbridge after graduation where he devoted his life to helping the patients of his 13th Street dental practice.

Tats loved playing hockey since his childhood.  He played throughout his life and had plans to return to playing after his knee surgery.  He enjoyed both the sport and the time spent with his hockey buddies.  Tats legacy is his extensive family. He inspired 7 of his nieces & nephews to follow in his footsteps to become dentists.  

Being with family as well as his coffee friends brought him joy.  He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and patients.  The family wishes to express our thanks to Herman, Tom, Keith, Raynard, John, Amanda and his caregivers Shelley, Sujan and Robin.

As per his request no formal service will be held.