Browsing all posts in Isshin-ryu History.

In Memory of Sensei Dennis Sammartino

It is with regret that I write about the passing of Sensei Dennis Sammartino (12-7-09) at his home after a prolonged battle with cancer. Dennis and I trained with Sensei Dale Jenkins, starting in about 1973.  He was a fine man who taught Isshinryu for many years at his dojo in Boonton, NJ. His desire [...]

In Memory of Gene Feller

Gene Feller – November 3, 1940 to November 17, 2009 He was a friend of 26 years, an artist and Second Degree Black Belt at our dojo. Gene loved to train. He lifted weights with the best of them and he loved to expand his Isshin-ryu skills and knowledge. His sense of humor would light [...]

In Memory of Mrs. Mary Duessel. April 10, 1927 – August 19, 2008

Mary Duessel a friend with the willingness to listen, laugh at a good story and would also say things like they are. Whisper And if I go, While you’re still here . . . Know that I live on, Vibrating to a different measure Behind a veil you can not see through. You will not [...]

A Bio of Master Tatsuo Shimabuku

Tatsuo Shimabukuro, originally named Shinkichi, was born on September 19, 1908, in Kyan Village, Okinawa. He later changed his name to Tatsuo, meaning “Dragon Man.” At the age of 12, he began training with his uncle, Kamasu Chan, in Shuri-Te. He initially began Karate training in the hopes that he would be able to fend [...]

Hanshi William H. Duessel

Master William H. Duessel, 9th Degree Black Belt, has been training in the martial arts for more than 40 years. In 1964 his training in Isshin-ryu Karate was heightened when he trained daily for three months with O’Sensei Tatsuo Shimabuku, when he visited Pittsburgh, PA. His understanding and knowledge of the art is second to [...]