1927 – 2015
PORTLAND — Misak “Mike” Tatosian Jr., 87, of Abbott Street in Lewiston, passed away peacefully at Maine Medical Center on Wednesday, Feb. 11, with his loving family at his side, following a brief illness.
Born in Providence, R.I., on July 7, 1927, a son of Misak and Bazar Tatosian, he attended schools in Chelsea, Mass., and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1945, just after graduating from high school.
During World War II, Mike served in an amphibious unit, operating a small landing craft in which he picked up Franklin Delano Roosevelt Jr., the president’s son, and took him to the USS Missouri for the signing at the end of the war.
A combat veteran of the Vietnam War, Mike proudly served in the “Brown Water Navy,” tirelessly ferrying ammunition along the Perfume River to the Marines at Hue. He would later return to Vietnam for a second tour of duty as an adviser to the South Vietnamese Navy.
Mike retired from the U.S. Navy as a senior chief boatswain’s mate in 1987, after serving his country for over 30 years. He embraced many cultures during his tours in the Pacific, making many friends and learning to speak Mandarin Chinese, Vietnamese and a bit of Korean.
During his retired years, Mike enjoyed continued service to his community as a member of the Kora Temple Shriners, a 25-year member of Rabboni Lodge No. 0150, VFW Post, and the American Legion.
He loved collecting classic cars (usually one at a time), getting coffee with other veterans and attending as many Boston College hockey and football games as possible.
Mike is survived by his wife of 34 years, Shu Tuan, whom he married on April 1, 1980, in Taiwan; a son, Michael and his wife, Jeana, of California; a granddaughter, Jane; and a grandson, soon to be born.
He was predeceased by his brother, George.
The family thanks the devoted staff of the CICU at Maine Medical Center for their empathy and professionalism.
You are invited to express condolences and pay tribute to Mike’s life by visiting his guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.
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