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Masami Tsuruoka Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Masami Tsuruoka, O'Sensei, on October 10, 2014 at the age of 85. He leaves behind his loving wife Kay of 65 years, sons David (Cathy) and Kazumi, grandchildren Lucas, Christopher and Stephanie. Predeceased by his sister Hideko and brother Masaaki. Survived by his sister Ayame. Masami lived his life with dedication, loyalty, and passion which impacted the lives of so many. Loved and respected by many families, friends and martial arts students worldwide. He will be remembered in the hearts of many and for the legacy he leaves behind. He will be memorialized as the Father of Canadian Karate-Do. Many have benefited so much from this great man and we will treasure many memories created by and shared with O'Sensei. He will be missed and we mourn his passing very deeply. Masami Tsuruoka Foundation is being formed and donations can be made through the Tsuruoka Karate Organization. A private funeral will be held by the family. A memorial will be held at a later date in Celebration of O'Sensei's life. Arrangements entrusted to Turner & Porter Butler Chapel, 416-231-2283.
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Memories and Condolences
for Masami Tsuruoka
Sponsored by Tsuruoka Karate Organization.
89 Entries
Tony Grice
July 23, 2024
Sorry to hear of his passing 10 years ago.Rip Sensei
Carol Wilson
February 2, 2023
I just found out recently that O'Sensei had passed. I am so very sad about his passing. He was a remarkable man and a great teacher. The lessons I learned from him will not be forgotten. He touched so many people's lives. I will miss him.
Bryan Foulkes
January 13, 2019
Shoumen ni... Orei!
Always within; never forgotten.
Thank you Sensei.
Istvan Kolnhofer
March 2, 2018
I just discovered this sad news, years late. Masami Tsuruoka was my sensei for many years in the 1980's at the Canada Square dojo on Eglinton Ave in Toronto, and I am forever grateful for his teachings and humbled by his wisdom. May he rest in eternal peace.
Bruce Currie
July 20, 2017
So many fond memories from tournaments and workshops. One day, see you on the other side Oh Sensei.
Thomas Fleming
June 27, 2017
David my dear friend I just found this page and would like to send my condolences to you and your family.
Mike Restivo
March 15, 2015
O'Sensei was a lifelong inspiration from the few years I trained under him, through my mature life, guided by the spirit of Bushido and discipline of Chito-Ryu Karate-Do. My sincere condolences to the entire Tsuruoka family.
Clark Irving
February 8, 2015
My condolences to the Tsuruoka family for there loss. I had the great opportunity to get trained by him and David in the late 70,s early 80,s at the Yonge and Eglington dojo. I feel that training made me the man I am today and I owe so much to them. The world lost a great man and he will forever be in my memories.
Anne-Marie Leidl
January 24, 2015
David, I 'm so sorry to hear about your father. He left a huge legacy for so many people. He was an amazing man and I feel so fortunate to have had him as a teacher.
Leo Savoie
December 31, 2014
I would like to offer my sincere sympathies to all the Tsuruoka family . I trained with O Sensei Tsuruoka when he came to N.B. under Sensei Alcide Bourque . It is a sad day for all who trained under him .
John Matsumoto
December 1, 2014
David, i heard about your Dad's passing away, when I returned from a recent trip.I spoke to your mom briefly but was unable to get your phone number. In any event my deepest condolences to you and your family. As you know Shane , Jimmy and I started out at the old Queen Street gym so many years ago. Were it not for your Dad, Karate in Canada would not be what it is today. He was truly the Grand Master of karate in Canada. Indeed,he shaped the lives and destiny of hundreds who took up this martial art.
I was fortunate enough to have been able to spend some time with him and Shane when they were in Vancouver a couple of years ago. He was truly a unique man, and I always had a lot of respect for him.
As I was undergoing medical treatment , was unable to attend his recent memorial.However, my daughter Kylie, who now lives in Toronto, was there on my behalf.
Aside from all the things I remember about your Dad , I will never forget his" hesitation punch" , which he showed us when we were just starting out at the Queen Street gym.It's funny the crazy things you remember about some one , that you'll never forget.
Call me when you can David ...
John Matsumoto 250 477-8081 .
Sensei at Orlando, FL Seminar - Feb,1999
Gordon Levin
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Steve Hillmer
November 22, 2014
Alex Smith
November 21, 2014
Sincere condolences to the entire Tsuruoka family, with the hope that Sensei's inspiration to thousands will continue for years to come.
Clinics, tournaments, summer camps, punishing but rewarding training, learning intense humility along with strong self worth are among the many thoughts that have all come back as strong memories of time well spent with a man who changed my life for the better.
November 20, 2014
David, your father touched many of us and helped shape our lives. Please accept my condolences.
Norman Welch
Canada Shotokan Karate
Kevin Price
November 5, 2014
I was very saddened to hear of the passing of O'Sensei Tsuruoka. I attended his karate seminars as often as possible and also had the great privilege of receiving my 1st degree black belt from him. He will be greatly missed, but his wisdom lives on in the spirit of karate within me and my students.
Jake Klaus
November 3, 2014
It is so sad that everyone must leave us at some point. Sensei Tsuruoka will remain in our hearts, as a fine man and our Father of Canadian Karate. Condolences to all who loved him.
Alexis Bone
October 23, 2014
O-Sensei's passing is a great loss of a Grand Master and the end of an era demonstrating his caliber of the Art of Karate.His strength of character and loyalty to his Art is a legacy that will live on through the many lives that he has touched.He will be profoundly missed as my mentor but most of all as my dear friend.
Andrea Workman
October 22, 2014
Dear David,
I am so very, very sorry for your loss.Please accept and extend my condolences to your mother and your family.
Sensei was the last of his kind. He was also a legend and the thing is about legends - they never die.
My thoughts are with you, your mother and your family. Your father has just stepped into another room and left the door ajar to better see and hear us.
DINA ANTHONY
October 22, 2014
Dear Cathy, Chris and the Tsuruoka family.
I am very sorry to hear about the passing of Masami Tsouroka. My prayers are with you during this difficutl time.
Ken Hansen
October 20, 2014
It is with much sorrow that I received the news of the passing of O'Sensei. We have lost a great martial arts champion and teacher. My heart felt condolences for the Tsuruoka family.
Rest in peace, O'Sensei.
Cayuga Karate
Sandy Hedges
October 18, 2014
My deepest condolences to the Tsuruoka family, it has been a honor to have been trained by such a great man and he will be surely missed by many Krateka.
Dick, Cathy, Angela, megan, Glenn Yamakawa
October 18, 2014
Auntie Kay, cousins David and Kazumi; deepest condolences for your loss.
Barbara E. Dometrich
October 17, 2014
I am at a loss for words, I have known the Tsuruoka family for more then 50 Years, Sensei was a very special person in our lives, His loss closes another chapter of Chito - Ryu. My Heart felt condolences to Kay, David and his family.
Barbara E. Dometrich. ( US Chito Kai Karate federation).
Glenn Yamakawa
October 17, 2014
My condolences to the family for your loss. He was a very respected individual that accomplished many things in his life.
Hirotaka Yamashiro
October 17, 2014
Very sorry to hear the passing of a great uncle and true pioneer of karate in Canada
Gordon Levin
October 16, 2014
My condolences to the entire Tsuruoka family. Sensei was was a special person whom I've described many times as being magical. There will never be another like him...I'd like to think that somewhere Dr. Chitose, and Senseis Tsuruoka and Dometrich are all training together
Frank Woon-A-Tai
October 16, 2014
Heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Master Masami Tsuruoka, Father of Canadian karate.
I first met him in 1973 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at the First IAKF Pan American Karate Union Championships. We were there with Masters Nishiyama and Okazaki. When I arrived in Canada in 1980, I paid him a courtesy visit and he offered to help me get started. Whenever Masters Nakayama, Nishiyama, Okazaki and Yaguchi visited me in Toronto, he would always pay them his respect. He was always respectful to me and would, whenever I saw him, say "Frank I am going to send my grandchildren to train with you." I served with him on the NKA Technical Advisory Committee and at meetings, he would use me as his personal secretary.
Rest peaceful Sensei and may God Bless you. Your Legacy will live on through the thousands of karate-ka who were influenced by your presence and whose lives you touched.
Frank Woon-A-Tai, IKD
Dave Chin-Cheong
October 16, 2014
On behalf of the students, instructors and board of Tsuruoka Kai Kitchener-Waterloo club we want to express our deepest sympathies to the Tsuruoka family. O'Sensei was our mentor and inspirational teacher. We will always value the times he spent at our club sharing his insights and humour. There are not many people who cross our paths that inspire change to be better; O'Sensei was one such person. We own him teachings that will we will endeavor to pass on, as best as we can.
Steve, Marian, Stephanie & Justin Wong
October 16, 2014
Words cannot express our sorrows at the passing of O'Sensei. We have lost a great martial artist. Our condolences are with the Tsuruoka family.
Rest in peace, O'Sensei.
Donald Brown
October 16, 2014
I first met O SENSI during the early 1980's while training under the NKA banner in Winnipeg. His teachings served me well over the past 25 years of policing in Wpg. My condolences to the Tsuruoka family on a great man's passing. He has left a profound memory in all his students over the decades. May we strive to remember him by passing on his teachings. Rest in peace O Sensi... Osu!
Don Schmidt
October 16, 2014
As a member of the United States Chito Kai I was fortunate enough to train with O-Sensei Tsurouka during our clinics when he was a guest instructor. I attended his 50th anniversary celebration with Mr. And Mrs. Dometrich and shared the love and respect for O-Sensei. My deepest condolences to his family and loyal students. He is a true legend.
Jeff Darrington
October 16, 2014
Thank you so much for what you have done for Martial Arts in Canada. I had the great opportunity to train with you and your son David. You will be so missed.
Rest in peace O'Sensei.
Omar Maldonado
October 16, 2014
In the life stream that is Canadian karate-do, his waters touched every martial artist from sea to sea to sea, in this great nation of ours. I was sharing with our staff that this moment may be coming soon. With a spirit of gratitude for all that he has impacted positively and for the trailblazer that he has been all his life. He will be missed but never forgotten.
From the over 1200 students at Summit Karate schools. And from the millions of other karate-ka that this great individual inspires over the years. Our deepest condolences to O'Sensei's family.
Sherry Dometrich Kembre
October 15, 2014
The Dometrich family and the United States Chito-kai send our condolences. I remember visiting him when I was 4 years old and of course being apart of the many workouts, especially during our summer camps. He enjoyed the glow in the dark bracelets the entire group wore during the midnight field workout. Great memories. My father, William Dometrich, always regarded Tsuruoka Sensei has his brother. He will be dearly missed.
October 15, 2014
O-Sensei, you will always be missed and remembered by your students at the Cambridge Club. My thoughts and condolences to your family at this time. Michael Quinn
Martin Piercey
October 15, 2014
My memories of Sensei Tsuruoka takes me back to 1966 when I joined his Dojo on Yonge Street in downtown Toronto. At that time Monte Guest and David Tsuruoka were brown belts if memory serves me. Sensei Tsuruoka was a role model and taskmaster. After hard classes and going to work the next day my associates would ask why am I so bruised all over my arms (and legs). Sensei's classes were tough back then. Always kind in his demeanor he excelled in principals, technique and teaching. My daughter has learned these wonderful principals and I am proud to say she is studying for a 3rd degree black belt at Arsenault Martial Arts class in Mississauga.
Our thoughts are with the Tsuruoka family;
Martin Piercey, Streetsville ONT.
Gilles Lavigne
October 15, 2014
Thank you for sharring your Art with us. You will be remembered in your teachings, a great and humble man. You are loved by many, rest in peace Sensei...
Jusni & Cecilia Hilwan
October 15, 2014
Dear Christopher and Roswita,
Our condolences on the passing away of your beloved grandfather. May his soul rest in peace.
Marie & James Stewart
October 15, 2014
With deepest respect and heartfelt sadness, the Stewart family send their condolences to the Tsuruoka family.
He will never be forgotten - his vision and teachings for Karate-Do, will live forever!
Antonio Terra
October 15, 2014
Thank you for all the teachings and the kind words, and thank you for been the father of karate in Canada, OSS O Sensei!RIP
Christine Kay
October 15, 2014
One night while training you had us doing kicks....I stopped counting when we passed the 700 mark....people were crawling off the floor...one at a time. You were in your office having a smoke. I remember having no feeling left in either leg, but I tried to keep going. You finally came out and stood and looked at us all and this is what you said:
"Sleep when you're dead...no one will bother you. But while you are alive....keep going and never give up."
I had no idea then, that your words would stay with me. But they have. Thank you Sensei Tsuruoka
Curtis Walz
October 15, 2014
I never met him, but I've heard many wonderful story's of his amazing feats. I watched the movie, " Otousan" . seeing what he went through made me respect him, although I had never met him. I will always regret that.
Chanh Chau Tran
October 15, 2014
Thank you sensei for your teachings and the wonderful times spent every year at the Coboconk camp
Wendell black
October 15, 2014
It is said that "The teaching of one virtuous person can influence many you influenced a country.
What has been learned well by one generation can be passed on to hundred.you have passed on to thousands.
Thank you O Sensei
Wendell Black Saint John N.B.
October 15, 2014
Thank you for being my Sensei for over 53 years. I cannot imagine a life without Karate and the profound influence you have had on me.
My deepest condolences to the family, O-Sensei will never be forgotten but continues to be an integral part of our lives.
- Frank Baehr
October 14, 2014
As I read all these wonderful tributes to you I think to myself what a tremendous man. To me you will always be DAD. Although I may not have had as many years as some had with you, the 30 years I did have as your Daughter In Law were the best 30 years of my life. You carried yourself at home as you did in the Dojo, just not as hard on your Grandkids. I could not have asked for a better role model for them. I will miss our talks together and your laughter and jokes. You will be in our thoughts and our hearts always.
Cathy
Keith Fitzgerald
October 14, 2014
My condolences to the Tsurouka family. Having known O'Sensei since 1975 and trained under his banner, I will truly miss this great man and teacher.
My teacher, my mentor, my compass.
Andrew Bowerbank
October 14, 2014
Martin and I were proud to operate the Davisville Dojo for you.
Andrew Bowerbank
October 14, 2014
Always perfect timing.
Andrew Bowerbank
October 14, 2014
My perfect moment.
Andrew Bowerbank
October 14, 2014
Training at the Yonge Eglinton Dojo.
Andrew Bowerbank
October 14, 2014
Decades training at Camp Kami Kaze.
Andrew Bowerbank
October 14, 2014
Guiding my life from a teenager to adult, you were always there for me.
Andrew Bowerbank
October 14, 2014
My teacher, my mentor, my compass.
Andrew Bowerbank
October 14, 2014
It is with great sadness that I share with you the passing of O-Sensei Masami Tsuruoka, Father of Canadian Karate. He was my teacher, my mentor, my compass.
O-Sensei Tsuruoka was truly one of the last of a generation dedicated to an ancient way of life; committing completely to the principles of self preservation, perfection of character and to the martial doctrines of days gone by. His prowess in karate-do is unprecedented, and his dedication to his students is unsurpassed . I am very proud to be the author of 2 books dedicated to this great man.
On behalf of my wife my children, my students and my friends, I say thank you O-Sensei for your guidance, you passion, and your leadership. You will be missed.
Sandy Cameron
October 14, 2014
Deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to O'Sensei's family. I trrasure fond memories of the times I was blessed to spend with him. O'Sensei had a big impact on my life.
May his eternal soul rest in peace.
Joan-Gail Ranger
October 14, 2014
I never realized the impact when I coined the phrase ''The Father of Canadian Karate'' to a friend of mine. He will be sorely missed and can never be replaced. He was and continues to be, a treasure to this world. He will live in the memory of people for many, many, decades to come.
Michel Royer
October 14, 2014
Merci Sensei for having created and influenced so many in your path of Karate-Do
George Schell
October 14, 2014
O'Sensei guided many on the Path early on and with his legacy, we will continue to be guided. Many heart filled thanks to this remarkable man. An honour and privilege to have known him since 1959. Ossu
John Hanratty
October 14, 2014
My deepest condolences...You will be remembered through the legacy you left with all Canadian Martial artists.
Sam moledzki
October 14, 2014
Sincere condolences and deepest sympathies from Karatedo Shito-Kai Canada.
Sam Moledzki, President
Timothy Suzuki
October 14, 2014
My condolences to the Tsuruoka family. He will never be forgotten through his teachings and vision for Karate-Do in Canada.
October 14, 2014
With heartfelt respect and a deep sense of sadness, the Fagan family send their condolences to the Tsuruoka family.
As you are surrounded by the love of family and friends, may the knowledge that O'Sensei's legacy lives on help to comfort you during this time of profound grief.
Ron, Darlene and Ronan Fagan
Metro Karate Training Centre, Dartmouth, NS
October 14, 2014
My sincere condolences to the family and loved ones. O'Sensei did not only touch the lives of Japanese style martial artists, his vision and passion touched the lives of ALL martial artists. He will be missed, but his legacy will live on in his students.
Robert Sidoli
October 14, 2014
My deepest condolences to the Tsuruoka family, his friends and students. Every Canadian Karate-ka owes so much to this great man. A true gentleman, and within the karate world it can be said that a giant redwood has fallen. May you Rest in Peace sensei.
Bruce Currie
October 14, 2014
Always be remembered for being the Father of Canadian Karate. Thank you for giving so much.
Hugh Stuart
October 14, 2014
My thoughts are with ALL of You at this uneasy time .
I remember + enjoyed training under Tsuruoka O'Sensei from 1983 to 1985 at His Yonge + Eglinton Dojo .
He always was full of life in general and His great energy always rubbed off on all of Us . The energy was near endless .
Even His presence raised Everyone's spirits . Together this made Him a very unique and Somebody You would like from the first time You come across Him .
I miss Him , I know all of Us will too .
OSU
-Hugh Stuart
Cliff Uchimaru
October 14, 2014
David and family. I know it's been a long time since being out of Toronto, but Sensei has always been an influence and an inspiration in my life. I had so much respect for him. I am so sorry to hear this.
Charles Almasy
October 14, 2014
Dear Kei, David and Family,
It is with a sad heart that I send my sincere condolences at the passing of Tsuruoka Sensei. He had a profound effect on my life through his kindness and stern teachings. I cherish the memories from the Queen St. Dojo, where I started, and along with thousands of his students, will miss him dearly..
Thank you "Otousan"
Patrick McCarthy
October 14, 2014
Sensei ... thank you for having given us all so much. Your inspirational teachings continue to light the path and will live on through your many students.
Condolences & Sympathies
Patrick McCarthy
Brisbane, Australia
Eric Johnson
October 14, 2014
My sincerest condolences to David and the entire Tsuruoka family. O-Sensei was an amazing man and his teachings will live on forever. He will be sorely missed!
Allan Kosciuszko
October 14, 2014
My honour was meeting Sensei when his dojo was in the Dupont Davenport area some 40 years ago. He was then as he is now a great man. Tributes to him and his family and what an amazing legacy for future generations.
October 14, 2014
Our deepest sympathies to Mrs Tsuruoka, David and family. Our loss is great and your loss is great....Sensei will be missed in so many ways.
Steve & Lydia Hillmer
bruce topping
October 14, 2014
We will remember you
David Gallois
October 14, 2014
Dear Kay, David and Kazumi. My most sincere condolences at the loss of this legendary idol. I have always been inspired whenever I met O'Sensei. Watching O'Sensei lead seminars or hearing him speak at major events & ceremonies like the Canadian Black Belt hall of fame or Otousan premier were truly inspiring. I treasure the times I've met O'Sensei and mourn his loss deeply with you.
October 14, 2014
my deepest condolences to the Tsuruoka family. Bern Noseworthy,
Yodan
Manaste
Kim Dunn
October 14, 2014
My deepest sorrows go out to David, Cathy and immediate family. I was privileged to have learned from this great master. He was one of my greatest influences. My most sincere condolences...
Lorna McEwing
October 14, 2014
With love and gratitude to my Teacher.
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