Michael James Nakata

February 14, 1959 - March 2, 2022

Michael James Nakata, passed on March 2, 2022 after a very brief stay at North Kansas City Hospice House. He fought a courageous battle against Cancer the last year & a half of his life. Michael was a Valentine’s Day baby, born on February 14, 1959 to Betty Lou (Dickson) and George Nakata in Leavenworth, Kansas. Michael was a simple man with simple needs and wants, often referred to as a “gentle giant”; those who knew him well recognized his quiet demeanor and warm heart. Michael spent his youth in Leavenworth; attended and graduated from the Leavenworth School system where he participated in Band, Sports, Scouts and ROTC. He was baptized and confirmed in the United Methodist Church of Leavenworth. Michael was always an animal lover, an avid NASCAR fan and also enjoyed watching old western movies. On February 25th of 1996 he married the love of his life Debbera (Dee) Jackson in Platte City, Missouri. They worked as a team driving big rigs and loved the opportunity to travel from coast to coast seeing the sights. They were married for thirty three years and lived in many States before settling in Kansas. Dee was in failing health for many years while Michael lovingly served as her caretaker until she passed on July 15, 2019. He was also preceded in death by his father George Nakata, grandparents, Ethel & Edgar Dickson, Majime & Masaiichi Nakata. Michael is survived by his mother Betty Lou Nakata of Twin Oaks, Brother David & sister in law Shari Nakata of Burnsville, MN, his sister/caretaker Kathy Hiatt of Leavenworth, KS, brother in law Glen Jackson Jr of Princeton, MN. Also Nieces, Natasha Dawson & Angela Nakata, Nephews, Shawn Hiatt & Greg Nakata (wife Mandi) plus grand & great nephews, grandnieces, many cousins that Michael loved and cherished along with a few close friends. Michael chose cremation with no visitation. Plans for a Memorial will be announced at a later date.