Master Vasquez Memorial

Master Vasquez Memories

Master Vasquez was Co-Founder of our dojo, along with Sensei Gary Diven, taking financial responsibility and leadership from the beginning until his passing on June 6, 2022. Master Vasquez began studying the martial arts while was stationed in Okinawa in the 1970s. He studied Shorin Ryu under Hanshi Fusei Kisei. When he was discharged, he returned to our area but could not find any local Shorin Ryu schools, so he began studying Isshin Ryu karate. Master Vasquez received his Sho-Dan on October 12, 1996 and received his Hachi-Dan on December 6, 2014 from Hanshi Karl Hovey and Hanshi Rod Crimmins.

Master Vasquez always loved to tell stories and he love his students. He insisted on the giving their best efforts. He would work tirelessly with beginners to give them the best start possible. Sensei Diven wanted people to know this. Master Vasquez often let his lower rank instructors take the lead in promoting students, organizating events, and leading events. He liked to push his yudansha forward. He was proud of every student, but especially proud when his students made it into the envied ranks of being a blackbelt.

Master Vasquez was a brother to many, a mentor, and a good friend. Our hearts ache with his passing. Like his co-founder, Sensei Diven, he has left an empty spot that cannot be filled. As our remaining instructors and students strive to move forward, we ask that all who knew him, whether students, or just friends, always think of Master Vasquez as a man who loved his students and who always strived for their best interest. Remember him with honor and respect, store up the memories of good times and (long) conversations. Keep working to be your best (remember - "stances, stances, stances"), train as if he was right there looking at you, fiddling with his moustache and giving you guidance. Words like "we miss you" will never be enough, but they are all we have.