Michael Norman Tatar

Michael Norman Tatar, 81, of Yuma, Arizona, died the morning of February 21, 2026 at his home in the Emerald Springs Assisted Living facility.

Michael was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 17, 1944 to Betty and Michael Tatar. He was well-respected as one of the premier architectural sheet metal workers in the United States. His work included the original twin towers of the World Trade Center. He also designed and installed the capitol dome for the Utah State Capitol as well as the Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City, Utah. His work can be seen in many schools and churches, hotels and other buildings that feature fine work anywhere from New York to California and many points in between.

He enjoyed painting, embroidery, leatherwork, reading and creating new things, along with simply puttering around.

He is survived by his children Lori Tatar Smith (Mark), Michael Norman Tatar II (Kathy), Jeffrey Bruce Tatar (Kari), Jennifer Lynn Tatar, Tammi Dowell-Pierce, Karrie Seidel (Brian) and his brother James Philip Tatar. Michael had 22 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. He is predeceased by the love of his life, his beautiful wife JoAnn Janet Tatar, whose ashes will be buried with Michael as they start their journey to eternity together.

A private service will be held for Michael on Monday, March 16 in Yuma, Arizona.

While he was not able to die on his mountain in Squaw Valley, he and JoAnn lived their best life together there.

Michael loved fiercely and deeply.

He and the entire Tatar family want to express our immense gratitude to the Emerald Springs staff who helped him through his final months.