Obituary of Dennis Taku

10/14/1946 - 10/31/2021 Dennis passed away suddenly at home. His wife, Anne was by his side. Dennis was born in San Luis Obispo, CA. Grew up in Campbell, CA, and moved to Santa Cruz to raise his family for the last 36 years. Dennis graduated from Campbell HS, in 1960, and Saint Mary’s College of CA with a Bachelor in Arts Management degree in 1979. Dennis served in the US Navy in 1967 as a Communications Technician (Technical), 2nd Class at the US Naval Security Activity Group in Bremerhaven, Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1972, after receiving the National Defense Service Medal. Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Anne, his loving sons, Chris of Portland, OR; Alex, Christina & Lucas of Scotts Valley; and his recent, sweet, rescued companion dog, Copper Girl. He is also survived by his younger brothers, Mark & Joann Taku of Indio, CA; Jeff & Linda Taku of San Jose; nieces, Courtney Taku of Plano, TX; Kelsey Taku & Nick of San Jose; Sister-in-law, Donna Maciel; niece, Melissa Taku both of San Jose, and many extended family members. His older brother, Gary Taku, and his parents, Karl and Mickie Taku preceded him in death. Dennis’ first love was surfing. He was a regarded member of the Killer Cowells Surf Club in the 1960’s. President of The Santa Cruz Longboard Union for 10 years, in the 80’s. Some of his surfing memorabilia is housed at the SC Surfing Museum at Lighthouse Point. He leaves many lifelong friends in the surfing community. Dennis was very active in many sports. Slow pitch softball leagues, skiing, basketball & volleyball in the Navy, golf, and bowling leagues were some of his favorites. He was President and an active coach of Santa Cruz Little League in Tee Ball, Farm, Minors, Majors, Pony and Traveling Baseball teams in the 90’s. He also coached basketball teams at Mission Hill Jr High, and The Boys and Girls Club. He mentored and influenced so many youths during his coaching days. He will always be remembered as a very generous man who would always go out of his way to assist others with understanding and support. Never a doubt of “do we have enough food?” at family gatherings. He loved to cook! Friends and family are invited to attend a short Military Service, December 3rd 2021, at 11:00 AM at the CA Central Coast Veterans Cemetery, 2900 Parker Flats Rd., Seaside, CA 93955 (831) 393-9371. Immediately following the service, a Celebration of Life will be held at Bayonet Black Horse Golf Courses, 1 McClure Way, Seaside, CA 93955 (831)-264-6324, light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP for the reception: (831) 425-8943, leave a message. Thank you. A paddle out at Lighthouse Point in Santa Cruz, will be held in Spring / Summer 2022.