Bowling Green, Kentucky, August 25, 2025
News Summary
Pastor Mike Tanaro, a beloved community figure and faithful leader, passed away at 75, leaving a legacy of commitment to the Christian faith and missionary work. His impact is felt through countless lives touched by his ministry over five decades. Survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, he is remembered for his unwavering devotion and deep knowledge of the Bible. Funeral services will be held at Greenwood Park Church of Christ, with donations requested to support causes close to his heart.
Bowling Green, Kentucky — Michael “Mike” Trent Tanaro, a widely respected pastor and dedicated community servant, passed away at the age of 75 on August 20, 2025. Surrounded by his loving family at the time of his death, Tanaro left a legacy of faith that spanned over five decades.
Throughout his life, Tanaro was known for his deep personal relationship with Jesus Christ and his unwavering commitment to guiding others in their faith. His missionary endeavors took him to various parts of the world, including Botswana and Pakistan, where he devoted himself to spreading the Christian message.
Tanaro’s dedication to the Gospel was marked by his extensive knowledge of the Bible and his enthusiastic approach to preaching. His impact on the community and beyond can be seen in the lives he touched throughout his ministry.
He is survived by his wife of 22 years, Sally Nicks Tanaro, and a family that reflects his commitment to faith and service. His children include Dana Tanaro Britt, who is married to Jerry; Trent Tanaro, married to Marlana; Julie Tanaro-Phelps, married to Kevin; Patrick Fischer, married to Sarah; and Nathan Fischer, married to Zenaida. Tanaro was also a proud grandfather to numerous grandchildren: Jay Britt, Meghan Britt-Mills, Timothy Tanaro, Tyler Tanaro, Charlotte Spears, Emily Thompson, Isaiah Thompson, Mollie Thompson, Hunter Applegarth, Emma Fischer, and Millie Fischer.
Tanaro’s legacy extends to his five surviving siblings: Juanita Gerakas; Celeste Tanaro Johnson, married to Kenny; Tania Tanaro Ashby, married to Mark; Tami Tanaro Cohron, married to Terry; and Tony Tanaro, married to Andrea. In addition to his immediate family, many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends will remember him fondly.
While the family grieves their loss, they find comfort in the belief that he is now reunited with his first wife, Charlotte Cole Tanaro, who passed away after 30 years of marriage. Also awaiting him in glory are his parents, Albert Thomas Tanaro and Juanita Colburn Tanaro, in addition to his brothers Albert Tanaro and David Tanaro, among other loved ones.
Funeral services for Mike Tanaro are scheduled for Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at 12:00 noon at the Greenwood Park Church of Christ. Burial will follow at the Mt. Pleasant Church of Christ Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at J.C. Kirby & Son Lovers Lane Chapel and will continue on Wednesday from 10:00 AM to noon at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages expressions of sympathy through donations to Hospice of Southern Kentucky and “AIM” Adventures in Missions, organizations that align with Tanaro’s principles of compassion and outreach.
FAQ
Who was Mike Tanaro?
Mike Tanaro was a pastor known for his dedication to the Christian faith and service to the community, with over 50 years of preaching experience.
When did Mike Tanaro pass away?
Mike Tanaro passed away on August 20, 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by his family.
What were some of his contributions to the community?
He was heavily involved in missionary work, serving in places like Botswana and Pakistan, and was recognized for his knowledge of the Bible.
Where will his funeral services be held?
Funeral services will take place at the Greenwood Park Church of Christ on August 27, 2025, at 12:00 noon, with burial following at Mt. Pleasant Church of Christ Cemetery.
How can people express their sympathy?
The family has requested that any expressions of sympathy be directed as donations to Hospice of Southern Kentucky and “AIM” Adventures in Missions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green Pastor Remembered
- Wikipedia: Mike Tanaro
- Julie Roys: Kentucky Preacher Grizzell Killed
- Google Search: Mike Tanaro
- Kentucky Today: Living Hope Celebrates Pastor’s Tenure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pastors
- Hardy & Son Funeral Homes: Obituaries
- Google News: Mike Tanaro Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
