A dedication ceremony is planned this month to dedicate a new memorial in the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden.
On Sunday, March 29, the Tyler Sister Cities organization will unveil a memorial bench honoring the legacy of Tony Tadasa, who passed away in 2021.
Born in Japan, he came to the United States to study at Tyler Junior College, where he met his wife, Kathy. A beloved member of the Tyler community, Tony was a champion for citizen diplomacy as one of the most dedicated members of the Tyler Sister Cities organization.
A friend to all, Tony is remembered as a soft spoken, selfless individual who worked tirelessly to further the mission of Tyler Sister Cities and promote understanding through friendship and cooperation.
His native language of Japanese was essential in strengthening the relationship with Tyler’s sister city Yachiyo, serving as a translator for numerous delegation visits in Tyler and in Japan. He also worked diligently to prepare each group from East Texas to engage in traditional Japanese culture and business etiquette.
At 2:00 p.m., the public is invited participate in the dedication, which will take place on the east end of the garden, near the Tyler Sister Cities peace pole.
The event coincides with a delegation visit from Yachiyo City, many of whom were friends of Tadasa through his involvement in the organization.
Supporters of the project include: Tyler Junior College; NDMJ, Ltd Transportation; Mickey Slimp; Jamal Moharer; Teresa Kennedy, PhD; Carl VanDyke; Rebecca McLaughlin; Lindley Seagle; Gary Swindle; Mallori Sanders; Lane Luckie; Indre Pemberton; and Leah Wansley.
For more information about the upcoming delegation visit from Yachiyo City, click here.
Tyler Sister Cities 
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