Photo courtesy of Woodfin Funeral Chapel - Murfreesboro
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Oct 1, 1940 – Mar 26, 2024
Dr. Mamman Zakari “Zak” Kano, age 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 26, 2024. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Muhammad Kano and Naime Alibe.
He is survived by his wife, Kathleen “Kathy” Kano; son, Miko Kano; daughter, Courtney Kano; son, Mark Kano (Andy Mars); grandson, Joniah Kano; and great-grandson, Kyran Kano. He was a beloved grandfather to multiple grand-dogs, Hercules, JoJo, LuLu, and Vato.
Dr. Kano earned a bachelor’s degree and multiple masters’ degrees from Ohio University, as well as a PhD in Social Cultural Anthropology from Indiana University. He was a valued faculty member at Middle Tennessee State University and taught at various other institutions, including The Ohio State University and Fisk University. Dr. Kano was dedicated to the education and mentorship of his students.
He was a member of St. Rose Church and enjoyed the fellowship and the music shared in that faith community. Dr. Kano was an avid learner, followed international politics, and current events. His witty sense of humor is unmatched. Dr. Kano loved to laugh and sing—so much so that he credited the professional musical talents of his son, Mark, to his singing voice.
Visitation with the family will be on Thursday, April 11, 2024 from 4:00-6:00 PM at Woodfin Memorial Chapel. Funeral service will be at Woodfin Memorial Chapel on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Read MoreHe was wonderful. Even if he did call me an elitist. He was a good friend and mentor.
Summer Boyd
August 09, 2024 | Centerville, TN | Student
Your friends at Bellarmine Music Department are thinking of you. ❤
Dr. Timothy Glasscock
April 10, 2024 | Louisville, KY | Coworker
Godspeed Dr. Kano. You were a great professor pushing me to be a better student and a better person by your example. While I didn't end up working in the field of Anthropology, I do feel I use my degree in many different ways. I cherish my memories of my days at M.T.S.U. and I thank you for being a wonderful part of that time. Enjoy eternity. If I'm lucky enough I'll join with you and we can spend some time discussing what is sui generis.
Philip Wallace
April 05, 2024 | Smithville, TN | Student
Zack I will miss your laughter and friendship. How welcoming you were and taking everyone in as part of your family. I will miss the banter between you and Kathy and your teasing. RIP my friend
Jenny Boylan
March 31, 2024 | Murfreesboro, TN | Friend
May Dr. Kano rest in peace! Always a kind smile and a welcoming heart. He will be remembered by me by how much he loved his family and showed generosity of spirit. My love to the entire Kano family.
Love,
Christina Hart
Christina Hart
March 30, 2024 | Tenafly, NJ | Friend
I always loved when I got to see Zak. He was such a kind man! Kathy, Courtney, Mark and family, you will all be in my prayers!
Kelly Fiore
March 29, 2024 | Murfreesboro, TN | Friend
