The Tokyo community and Tokyo American Club lost one of the good ones when Michael Van Zandt passed away recently in Florida from complications related to COVID-19. Mike contracted the virus after he had proudly taken his daughter Hannah to her freshman year at college in Colorado and went on to visit his family in Florida. He was hospitalized but lost the battle on Thursday last week.
He leaves behind his beautiful wife Naoko and his two amazing daughters Hannah and Anne.
The more than 350 online posts within 24 hours of Hannah announcing his passing are a testament to the love and high esteem that all of us had for Mike. He was one of the most friendly, loving and loyal people I have ever met. His smile lit up every room he entered, and his intelligence and sharp wit were the stuff of legend. My life is better for having known him, and I was proud to count him my friend.
Many of us are still in shock, but I am sure that Mike’s message to us would be to get vaccinated, wear a mask, and get on with things!
Mike had invested much of his assets in the new business he was leading to an IPO. To put it plainly, his daughters need our help to finish their education. Every single yen will go towards this important task.
Please donate with this link. No donation is too small (or too large).