It is with profound sadness that we share with you that John Denore passed away. It is a heartbreaking loss for the martial arts community as we have lost another great martial arts Grandmaster. DeNora 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 began his 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 in both Japan and Korea.
Denora Sensei was not only a leader in the martial arts community, but he was also 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 also contribute to the community as a Professor of Japanese Martial Arts at University of San Diego.
The Martial Arts Community has lost two pioneers in the last week; Grandmaster Sid Campbell and Grandmaster John Denora. All of our thoughts and prayers are with their families, and students.
