Glen Cove Firefighters Give Final Goodbyes To Former Captain

GLEN COVE, NY — Glen Cove firefighters held a funeral service this week for a former captain and 52-year member, who was one of the first Asian-Americans to join their ranks.

Gilbert "Gil" Tanaka of Engine and Hose Co. No. 4 died Friday, June 5, according to an obituary posted on The Whitting Funeral Home's website. He was 78. Tanaka had been fighting failing health for weeks and died peacefully with loved ones at his side.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard and was recognized by the Nassau County executive five years ago for his military service. In 2018, he was honored for his 50 years of service to the city's fire department.

The City of Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department held a funeral service Tuesday for Tanaka. After leaving the funeral home, the procession stopped at the city's fire headquarters for a brief service, then continued on to Nassau Knolls Cemetery in Port Washington.

In a Facebook post, Engine and Hose Co. No. 4 said 2020 has been an "extremely difficult year," noting that Donnie Ellison, also a 50-year member and former captain, had also died. The company called both men "upstanding members of our community."

"GCFD Engine & Hose Company No.4 motto has always been 'Pride' and these two members were huge reasons for the level of excellence our Company has always strived for, not only for the Company but for the betterment of the City of Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department," the company said.

Tanaka and Ellison Donnie were a duo in the 1980s and "unbeatable for a long time" running competitive drill teams.

"We will dearly miss Gil and Donnie, it's a huge loss for our Company," the company said.

Tanaka was born May 14, 1942, according to his obituary. With a passion for gardening, he took over the Glen Cove Greenhouse as a young man and quickly became a local businessman. Tanaka was also known to be a fan of the New York Yankees and enjoyed attending car shows, as well as Sunday night dinners with family.

Tanaka is survived by his companion, stepchildren, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Below are photos of Tanaka's funeral service, courtesy of Kevin Madigan of K2M Photography.