Christopher “Chris” Katayama

December 27, 1948 – October 5, 2025

Christopher “Chris” Katayama, 76, of Minnetonka, passed away at his home on October 5, 2025.

Born on December 27, 1948, Chris served in the United States Marine Corps from 1968 to 1971. A lifelong sportsman, he was an accomplished wrestler at Richfield High School, St. Olaf College, and during his time in the service.

Chris went on to build a successful career in the restaurant industry- his creativity and dedication led him to fulfill his lifelong dream of opening his own restaurant. In 2004, he proudly opened Tiger Sushi at the Mall of America, later expanding with an additional location on Lyndale Avenue in Minneapolis.

Known to many as “The Katman,” Chris enjoyed cooking, photography, woodworking, fishing, and hunting. He was also a devoted daily reader of the Star Tribune. He will be remembered for his resourcefulness, strong work ethic, and quiet humor that left a lasting impression on those who were fortunate enough to know him well.

He will be dearly missed by his wife, Laurie Katayama; his children, Tad (Ashlie) Katayama and Deena (Josh) Klesel; his brother, Bob (Pat) Katayama; and grandchildren, Rozlyn, Ayla, and Miles (and dogs Zbee and Fiddle).

A private family service will be held at Lakewood Cemetery on October 22, followed by a celebration of life from 4:00–6:30 p.m. at the Westwood Hills Nature Center in St. Louis Park. All are welcome to attend.

In honor of Chris’s lifelong love of PBS cooking shows, memorials may be directed to PBS in his memory.

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