George Minoru Tanimura, farming giant and family patriarch of the Tanimura family, passed away on April 15, 2016, at the age of 100. 

The eldest of twelve siblings, George was forced to shepherd his family through such events as the Great Depression and World War II following the death of his mother, and some years later, of his father. Though the family lost everything they had as a result of interment during World War II, through hard work and savings, George managed to slowly rebuild the family farming venture into one of the world’s largest lettuce operations.

Among a host of other relatives, including grandchildren and great grandchildren, George is survived by his wife of 71 years, Masaye; son, Glenn Tanimura and daughter Leslie Morishita. Read Full Obituary.

Tanimura& Antle are Western Growers members and are represented on the Western Growers’ Board of Directors by their Executive Vice President and COO Mike Antle. Tom Nassif, president and CEO of Western Growers expressed condolences on behalf of the organization to both families. “On behalf of Western Growers and all of its members, I extend our deepest sympathies to the Tanimura family on their patriarch’s passing. And because of the very special and long-lasting relationship between their families, I also would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Antle family as they mourn George’s passing. George was a titan of the fresh produce industry who embodied the perservance and determination typical of farmers from his generation. His work ethic and genuine nature will be greatly missed.”         

Mr. Tanimura’s viewing will be held Saturday April 23, 2016, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Struve & Laporte Funeral Chapel located at 41 W San Luis Street, Salinas, CA 93901. The Funeral/Memorial Service will be held on Sunday April 24, 2016, at 1:00 p.m. at the Buddhist Temple of Salinas located at 14 California Street, Salinas, CA 93901.