Dear Martial Artist,

 

It is with profound sadness that I share with you the passing of another Great Martial Arts Leader, Grandmaster John Donora. Donora Sensei pasted quietly in his sleep on Thursday August 28, 2008 at 7:30 pm in hospice in La Mesa, California from complications of his battle with Bone Cancer at the age of 78.  At the time of passing; he was as always, surrounded by Toshiko and several senior students.

Grand Master Denora was survived by his daughter Mary Denora, his long time companion Toshiko Muto, his students, and thousands of Martial Artist world wide.

Denora Sensei was a life long martial artist; he started training as a youth and continued training throughout his life. As an Officer in the United States Marine Corps Denora Sensei trained with many leading Martial Artist throughout Japan and Korea, Denora Sensei was truly committed to the Warrior Way. For more information on Grandmaster Denora you can see his Bio on

USADOJO.com at www.usadojo.com/biographies/john-denora.htm

 

                             

Denora Sensei was not only a leader in the martial arts community; he also was an accomplished academic scholar; he received his Juris Doctorate from University of San Diego in 1968 and was one of a few Attorneys that practiced law before the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington D.C.

Denora Sensei’s leadership did not stop with his Dojo or his Law Practice; he continued to contribute to the community as a Professor of Japanese Martial Arts at University of San Diego; John was one of todays true leaders.

As a martial artist, Grandmaster John Denora was a personal trusted friend, as well as an Ambassador to the Masters Hall of Fame.  I was able to share just a few moments with him at the Masters two weeks ago, we spoke briefly and I told him I would call him soon to get his opinion something I was working on. Grandmaster Denora smiled and said “anything you need.” That was the last time I talked with one of my heroes.  

 

                                  

The Martial Arts Community is truly in morning after the lost two Pioneers in the last week; Grandmaster Sid Campbell and  Grandmaster John Denora. My thoughts and Prayers are with their families, and students.

Yours in the Arts,

Dan

 

Daniel Hect
CEO 
Masters Hall of Fame
www.MastersHallofFame.com


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