Clarence Tenki Taba was described as a respected financial administrator and a decorated World War II veteran. CLARENCE TABA / 1922-2001
442nd vet active in banking
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By Rosemarie Bernardo
rbernardo@starbulletin.comNancy Taba, Clarence's wife of 43 years, said her husband contributed to his family and community.
"He had a very full life," said Nancy Taba.
Taba died on July 19 in his Manoa home. He was 79.
Taba was born in Lahaina on April 7, 1922.
He was the first paid employee of the Hawaii Bankers Association and was committed to the association for 22 years. Taba later became its executive vice president and a member of the executive committee of the State Bankers Association of the American Bankers Association until he retired in 1997.
During World War II he volunteered for the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Among other awards Taba received, he earned three Purple Hearts for wounds suffered during World War II.
Taba was active in the 442nd Veterans Club and helped form a federal credit union in 1955 to better veterans' lives through saving and loan programs.
Bob Sasaki, former secretary for the 442nd Veterans Club, said he remembers Taba as a "behind-the-scenes guy who was never in the limelight but who just kept putting in long hours to make everything go right."
"Our credit union was very successful because he put its members first," said Sasaki.
Nancy said, "He did all the things he wanted to do. ... You can't ask for a more fuller life."
Taba is also survived by his sons Stuart and Dean; daughter Gayle Ohashi; sisters, Tsuruko Taba, Adele Onaga, Lurline Matsumoto, Yoshiko Taba and Kimiko Taba; and a granddaughter.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Manoa Valley Church. No flowers are requested. Casual attire.