Karatedo forum > Passing of John Halpin AKF President

Full Version: Passing of John Halpin AKF President

Shito-ryu Man

Jan 24 2007, 07:30 AM

I was informed last nigh the Mr John Halpin President of the Aust Karate Federation passed away. Those AKF people who knew will I am sure be sad of this news.

I have been told a memorial service will be held next week but don't have any details yet.

Colin Punyer
www.shitoryuaustralia.com

Matt

Jan 24 2007, 11:04 PM

Thanks for letting us know Colin.
Condolensces to his friends and family.

Sionnagh

Jan 25 2007, 05:43 PM

Very sad news. I believe he's been on the karate scene for a long time in Australia.

from www.akf.com.au

QUOTE

To all Members of the AKF Inc.

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of our National President, Mr. John Halpin, on Monday, 22nd January 2007.

John had been unwell for some time and passed away peacefully at home in Queensland with his family by his side. Our deepest sympathy and condolences are extended to Jean, daughter Samantha, son Kyran, his brothers and their families.

John has had a long and distinguished association with the world of Australian and International Karate. He held the position of National President of the AKF Inc. since 1993, as well as the positions of President of the Oceania Karate Federation (1994) and General Treasurer of the World Karate Federation (1998). He was also a member of the first Australian Team to compete at a World Championships.

He was a much loved and respected Karateka as well as a skilful and dedicated sports administrator who will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Messages of sympathy to John’s family may be addressed to: 52 Ruatoka Court, Burpengary, Qld. 4505.

A Funeral Service will be held at the Christian City Church, 1910 Gympie Road, Bridgeman Downs, on Tuesday 30th January 2007 at 4.00 pm.

Michael Kassis,
Deputy President,
For and on behalf of the AKF Inc. National Executive.

Shito-ryu Man

Jan 31 2007, 06:51 AM

Attended the Memorial to Sensei John Halpin last night. It was a mixture of sadness and celebration. I would estimate there was approx 600 people there. Many Many long time AKF people attended (many from the past no longer training).

Mr Espinos President of the World Karate Federation flew in from Madrid to speak at the memorial. Takemori Sensei Head of Seikukan flew in from Japan and awarded the family of Sensei Halpin with his 8th Dan.

There was a slide show of many photos old and new.

After there was a cermony at the seikukandojo where approx 50 blackbelts did some training and there was the placing of a Black and white photo at the front of the dojo so that Sensei halpin will always watch over his students.

Sensei Halpin helped me get in the AKF after I had a falling out with my old instructor. For that I will always be thankful.

Overall an emotion afternoon/evening.

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