Our dear friend Mr Gaku Takanashi passed away suddenly yesterday right before he was to give my son a guitar lesson. My daughter and mother-in-law saw him being wheeled out of the school on a stretcher.
Life ends suddenly and often without warning. May we not waste it in vain pursuits.
My family is sponsoring a dana and chanting for him. If you are so inclined please dedicate the merit of your practice to him.
Cattāri Brahmavihārā 
I found it by searching Gaku’s news – too sudden. I am in Tokyo, Gaku and I have been school mate since our 1st grade to the high school. Many of ex-school mates are shocked and want to hear details.
Rest in peace Gaku.
Kiyo Chinzei
By: Kiyo Chinzei on 01/27/2017
at 9:44 am
My condolences to you as well. They are holding a memorial service soon. I will post more details as they become available. Gaku was a very special person and will be missed. May he have a favorable rebirth. Metta.
By: Upāsaka on 01/27/2017
at 10:28 am
I just “met” Gaku or rather his music with International Orange a mere hour ago, and have watched and listened to whatever I could. in that brief time I now feel a loss, having just read of his passing. The first video I saw of him in the band I was immediately struck by his wide smile appreciating a cool lick by a fellow bandmember. That’s how I’ll remember him.
Doug
By: jazzlives14dp on 12/15/2018
at 8:09 pm