Everyone.
It is with deep sadness that I write this Email to inform you that Sensei Eddie Garcia passed away at 3am this morning Friday 13 June 2008.
Please join me expressing sympathy to his wife Dolores and family for their loss.
Sensei Garcia influenced us on and off the karate deck with his spirit, energy and life, he will be dearly missed.

Sincerely,
Hanshi Robert Scaglione.

Dear Friends,
Sensei Garcia passed away this morning. He fought till there was nothing left to fight for. Dolores said that she lost her Eddie....
I know we each feel that we lost our Eddie as well.
Lets dedicate our next workouts to Garcia Sensei and his Big Spirit and even Bigger Heart as we wait to honor the family's wishes.

May God Bless us all.
David Seeger

Our condolences go out to Sensei Garcia's family. We are deeply sorry to hear the news. I still remember how he taught me Nahanchi and the precepts of Bushido spirit. He is one of the Best Karateka Sensei Wong and I have ever met.
Garcia Sensei, we will always remember you. You are Ichi-Ban!
With greatest respect.
Sensei Lai
Sensei Wong
Ueshiro Hong Kong Karate Club, China

Aloha Garcia Sensei,
When you came to Hawaii, it was you alone who recognized the significance of the Imu. Hawaiians never forget and for that you will always be remembered. Aloha Garcia Sensei, Aloha.
Lyle Tomas Kleusch, Ueshiro Hong Kong Karate Club, China

Sensei Garcia Loved Ueshiro Shorin Ryu Karate U.S.A And he will be missed, I assure you he sits in sieza at Master Ueshiro's timeless class which began as soon as his spirit ascended to that Great Deck in the sky. Garcia Sensei lives and breathes in our kata. Arigato Hanshi for introducing Garcia Sensei to us all.

Barnes Sensei, Ro-Kyu Dan/Denshi/Shihan, and brother in arms of Sensei Eddie Garcia.

Both Sensei Garcia and Sensei Nichauls (then a Shodan) were my first instructors. They were both so wonderful introducing me to Shorin-Ryu Karate. Their pictures hang in a beautiful spot in my home. I will never forget their great spirit, and, above all love. And, what one of us could ever forget Sensei Garcia's sense of humor?

Lee-Ann Hartley, Shodan

Sensei!!
You will be missed by many, you gave so much, and you will always be remembered by all those whose lives you touched.
May the long-time sun shine upon you
All love surround you
And the Pure Light within you
Guide you all the way on.

Des Chaskelson

Onegai Shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei and Sempai,
A big compai to Garicia Sensei for all that he has taught myself and the rest of his Friday crew. Domo Arigato Sensei Garcia we will miss you dearly.

I am honored to have known Sensei Garcia. I have been a regular attendee of his Friday evening class for some time now. When we moved from the old Hombu dojo location to the new location at St Barts I became one of Sensei's two assistants. Ron Ballin being the other. During that time Sensei filled us with so much of his karate knowledge and more importantly he gave to us his life's knowledge. Growing up in hell's kitchen Sensei had endless stories of fighting, loving and laughing. We would always joke that his stories were embelished but we didn't care because he made us laugh and we loved to hear them. Tonight we held class in honor of Sensei. We burned inscense to bring his spirit into the dojo. With the love and emotion of all his students in attendance his presence was defintley felt. I am sure he was doing kata right along side us.

A few months back when Sensei's illness was made public I printed out a large size poster similar to one posted here. All of the Deshi at the Hombu Dojo signed it. Myself and Ron delivered the poster to Eddie and Dolores. You should of seen Sensei's face. He lit up light a firecracker. He couldn't believe everyone signed it. I was just glad we could give him a little happiness in a very sad time. The funny thing about that visit was Ron and I both went there to give Sensei a gift but it was us who left with gifts. Sensei gave us each a book. They were part of his Martial Arts collection. He gave me a book called "The Way of the Warrior." That title just sums up who Sensei Eddie Garicia was and is in all our hearts. It also just show the type of person Sensei was, he was a giver. He gave and he gave to the very end.

"BIG MAN WALKING KNOWS NO GATE" was Sensei's favorite quote on the deck. I am humbled to pass along a little something of who Sensei Garcia was.

Sincerely, Jonathan Cohen, Ik-Kyu

Onegashimasu Minasan(everyone),
I have had the pleasure and honor to learn from Sensei Garcia. During my training with him, he asked me many times to translate words for him in Japanese but it was very hard to translate his humor into words that made sense. I will always remember his humor and conviction to support the traditions of our school. In Japanese custom, we light incense to let the spirits of the body to find the places of their fond memories from the past. I hope that we can light some incense in the dojo and let Sensei Garcia know that his life has truly touch the heart of his students, instructors and friends. The burning of incense for the passing is called "Oshooko" in Japanese. When we burn the incense, it tells the spirit that you can come visit us and that you are welcomed here, I believe the dojo is the perfect place for him to find!
Go Shu Sho Sama (My deepest condolence)

Sam Suzuki ik-kyu, Ueshiro Midtown Karate

It is truly a sad day. Sensei Garcia was one of the most dedicated individuals in all aspects of his life. We lost a great friend and brother. Please pass our deepest condolences to Delores.

I want to share my most recent experience with Sensei Garcia when I phoned him at the hospital. I simply called to see how he was doing, as I am sure it was not an easy time for him. He did not dwell on his own situation for very long, and proceeded to ask me about the new club I just formed. I told him that it was quite challenging. He proceeded to reassure me to stick with it and gave me some incredibly brilliant advice. And he guided me in a very nurturing and loving way that I will appreciate for the rest of my days. Sensei was never selfish even in his most trying hour.

Domo Arigato Gozaimasu Sensei Garcia!
With the loving memory, Boris L. Grossman

I know we will all miss Sensei Garcia so much at the Northampton dojo. He rarely missed an opportunity to visit us here despite the distance, and was always so courteous and appreciative of those opportunities, as if we were doing him an honor rather than the other way around. I always enjoyed the metaphors he came up with on the deck.
Sensei Garcia had such a way with the ladies, too - and always loved Dolores more than life itself. A true gentleman.
This is really a difficult loss. My thoughts are with his wife and the rest of his family, as well as our entire karate family.

Mary McKitrick

Onegai Shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei, & fellow Deshi
As the sun shines on so will Sensei Garcia's Spirit. He was a great person and a Great Sensei, He will be missed!
Arigato Sensei Garcia for all that you shared with us.

Domo, Vachino Sensei

Words can not express the sadness I feel today with the passing of Sensei Garcia. But at the request of Kyoshi Seeger I share my story.
Just about every Sunday for the last 5/6 years Sensei Garcia would phone me to "check in". But several Sunday's came and went and I didn't hear from him. Then the posting announced he was hospitalized. I contacted Kyoshi Seeger for the telephone number to the hospital and phoned him right away.

He sounded like the "good old" Sensei Garcia that we all knew and loved. First he apologized for not calling, then he asked about me, my daughter, how work was going and even threw in instruction on several kata and told me to practice the bo every day, and finished off the conversation like always with "when are you coming to NY". Even at his most ill he was concerned about someone else. As it turns out that was to be our last conversation. Sunday's for me will never be the same. But I am forever grateful to Kyoshi Seeger for making this conversation possible.

Sensei Garcia was a great man with an even greater spirit. I am a better person for having known him.

Arigato, Edye Harkenrider

Sensei Garcia, Onegai-Shimasu...
I will never forget you.
I will always cherish the times I spent with you on and off our spirited Karate decks, on road trips with Hanshi, sharing hotel rooms, sharing meals, sharing stories, sharing laughs, and sharing Life which you filled with Joy and Vigor for us all! You taught me the meaning of the word "Magnanimous". You embody this word. I look forward to continuing the learning and training with your spirit and energy. Onegai-Shimasu...

Dolores,
We spoke a few times briefly on the phone. I never had the pleasure to meet you, but I heard so many great things about you from your husband. My warmest sympathies to you. Thank you for taking care of this great man and sharing him with all of us.

Most Sincerely, Tamir Sensei.

Onegai shimasu, friends and family of Sensei Eddie Garcia,
The following captures just a sliver of Sensei's infectious enthusiasm.
Please join me in celebrating this man's remarkable evolution as a martial artist and leader of the Midtown Karate Dojo.
Photos Slideshow of Garcia Sensei

Domo arigato gozaimasu,
Michael Mackay

The first karate class I participated in was at a grand opening at a gym in Rockville Centre, Long Island, NY. I had no intention of taking karate that morning, but I was snatched off a stationery bicycle by Sensei Grossman before I knew what hit me, still half asleep from my previous night out. Suddenly I was surrounded by mostly men and a few women in their bright white gis with their loud kiais, expected to follow along in a routine that they made look so easy. I was nervous and completely embarrassed. Sensei Garcia came to stand next to me for Fukyukgata Ich (probably because I was a lady!, but more likely because I looked freaked out) and told me to just follow him. And so I did. And so I continued to follow him and the rest of you from October 2003 until now. I will be forever grateful for the greatness of Sensei Garcia.

When you are advised after a test to go home and say "thanks" to your family, friends, and anyone who supports you in this art. Do it. I can?t stress enough how important this is. I had the chance to do that with Sensei Garcia about 2 months ago when he was home from a stint in the hospital. Ron Ballin mentioned to Sensei Garcia that I was thinking about him and that I shared the above story of how I met him. Sensei asked for my phone number and called the very next day, but I missed his call. I called him back and he sounded pretty bad when we first started talking and I offered to let him go get some rest, but Sensei is not one to cut a conversation short no matter how bad he felt! He asked me what I was up to and I mentioned teaching karate to some very young students in the East Rockaway dojo; I admitted it was a challenge trying to keep their attention and it was a bit taxing sometimes. He told me a story (of course) that completely cracked me up and made me feel better and now when I get stressed out in class I think of him and channel his energy into my teaching. Hopefully I'll get to share his story at compai this year.

I'm just happy I had a chance to tell him how much he influenced my study of karate. Without bringing up how bad his health was at the time (and what we both knew was inevitable) I made sure he knew that he would be remembered for a long, long time to come and his stories would be told over and over again.

Domo arigato,Kim Lembo

AAAAAAGH! A mighty blow has been struck with the passing of my friend Eddie. This world is less one truly unique individual...in body only..for his spirit will live on forever.

Tonight is the first of our memorial workouts dedicated to this guy who taught me so much. Northampton Ueshiro Karate Dojo 6:00 pm.

Domo arigato gozaimasu Sensei
Daniel W. Gobillot

Even though I did not have the fortune of knowing Sensei Garcia as well as many of you, I am greatly saddened at the loss of our brother, fellow karateka, and I am having difficulty finding the words to express my sorrow. Thank you all for your memories. I will truly miss his poetic corrections, the sugar that I am blessed to have received from so many of you (keep it coming). I will miss his friendly face, encouragement, humor, kind spirit, and (most of all) his warm smile. To Delores, my most sincere condolences. I am sorry that there are no words to assuage your grief.

Peace,Keith Eng

Sensei Garcia has left an indelible mark on my heart and soul and on the hearts and souls of everyone who came into contact with him. His spirit and tenacity were larger than life.
I found a quite moment this afternoon to sit by myself and reflect on this wonderful man. As I started to reminisce an uncontrollable smile came across my face. In my mind's eye, I could practically see Sensei Garcia on the deck, firing up the class with his enthusiasm, telling everyone to "hit hard" and "extend the line"! His philosophical thoughts and expressions gave everyone a `window to his soul'. You knew what kind of person he was ? and how much he wanted to give to others. What an honor to have known him and to have shared in his zest for life.

And I know he has left this mark on those who no longer train. Please, if you know of past students, please reach out to them and pass along the news of Sensei's passing, and relish in the joy of his memories. Today the world is a little sadder, but heaven is rejoicing.

Sensei Garcia will be missed - we miss him already... But we all know what he is telling us now - "keep moving forward".

John Bottega

Sensei Garcia will be missed very much! It was always a pleasure working out with him, as his voice and demeanor were very calming on the frenetic dojo deck. He and his family are in my prayers.

Domo Arigato, Gerard Rath

Domo Arigato for Sensei Garcia and his wonderful karate and life spirit. Our memories of his Florida training and his great example with us will never be forgotten. My sincere condolences to all of the Garcia family.

Arigato to Sensei Garcia,

Sensei Ron Marchetti

My Sincere Love and prayers go out to the Garcia Family.
Garcia Sensei was a legend, on the deck and off, the true warrior, with true Bushi-do spirit. He lived daily "Big Man Walking Knows No Gate". I knew this about Garcia Sensei the first time I met him some twenty years ago. His street wise persona and the martial way cut with a knife and bled love, strength and compassion for all , especially children, women, and anyone with a ear to learn from his life long stories and amazing personal quest.

I'll never forget the day I was quite down, not myself and Garcia Sensei asked me what's up Powell? I told him my mom had kidney failure and needed Dialysis's, He asked for my mothers telephone number and within 24 hours Delores and my mom had started a weekly phone conversation about dialysis and the hopes of where and how to get a kidney.

We all knew his spirit on the deck, but his spirit off the deck was even larger than that. This is the true essence of karate-do, to do it, show it, love it, live it, be it..., daily on the deck and off the deck. To inspire people anywhere and everywhere, at any time to better ourselves, have a laugh, challenge our minds, and be there for them with no motive other than to be a shining light for all.

Garcia Sensei will be missed, but his huge spirit will live on and on..., and will be right up there with Ueshiro, Motobu and all the rest of the Sensei that did it on the deck and off the deck daily, consistently to the very end.
My sincere and humble condolences go out to the Garcia family and his beautiful and caring wife Dolores.

Arigato Garcia Sensei! You lived the life you loved and loved the life you lived. I'm glad and fortunate that I met you as I continue on the path.....

Powell Sensei

HEARTFELT CONDOLENCES TO DOLORES AND FAMILY

DEAR DOLORES-- I WAS SO SORRY TO HEAR THAT YOUR BELOVED EDDIE PASSED AWAY --

MY LOVING THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY---EDDIE WAS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON -- HIS WARM FRIENDLY AND CARING MANNER MEANT A LOT TO MANY PEOPLE -HE WILL BE FONDLY REMEMBERED BY ONE AND ALL-- KINDEST REGARDS TO YOURSELF AND THE FAMILY MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AT THIS DIFFICULT TIME ---I KNOW THAT YOUR FAMILY WILL BE VERY SUPPORTIVE TO EACH OTHER JUST AS EDDIE WOULD WANT YOU ALL TO BE

FONDEST WISHES
SYLVIA CHASKELSON (SOUTH AFRICA)

Onegai Shimasu Sensei,
Sensei Garcia always had the greatest spirit and inspired me to join karate. My first time entering lexington ave dojo, when I was inquiring about Karate, he immediately came to me asked me "guess how old am I", I said 50? and he gave me a biggest smile and said "no, I am 62 years old, wanna join Karate?". I am sure he inspired many many people inside and outside the deck, for which I am very thankful to know Sensei Garcia.
Arigato, Shabbir Kazmi

While I was writing my final letter to Sensei Garcia, yesterday night at 3:27 am, Japan time, I didn't realize that most of the things I wrote about him were about him as a person, rather than him as just a karate sensei. I guess the Sensei Garcia that I always knew, was the hilarious man I met in karate class, rather than simply just my Friday 4:15 karate instructor.

I remember how he would always used to drill us with the calligraphy meanings on the wall--especially his favorite, "Big walking knows no gate"---it was not until I was much older, that I realized the true meaning to that. Sensei Garcia was one of the few people in my life so far, who never saw a gate in any path he wanted to take----he never let age stop him from starting karate in his mid 40's, no matter what time of the day, he always was out recruiting new students to the dojo, he never let marriage be a barrier towards flirting with the new female students, and most importantly, he never let mean people crush his spirit to coming to the dojo. Some people may consider that to be stubborn, but I think it showed just how strong his spirit and passion was. With that mentality, I am confident that that he got to do everything that he wanted to do in his long lifetime---which I am happy about, because then it was not a wasted life.

I will never forget all of the kind of things he did for me, and everyone else around him---how he would always correct my "lollipop thumb" when I first started karate, how he would call people who did not show power in their kata a "salami," how despite his love for talking, he was always up for hearing what his students had to say (he used to go around the room after class and ask everyone to say something), the nicknames he gave to people ('Cherry blossom' and 'Siddhartha' for Robin), and the many other things I remember, from the past 14 years I've known him.

For the katathon, anyone who knows gojushiho should dedicate it to him---as it seemed like that was his favorite kata. I remember during every kata demonstration, he would always 85% of the time pick gojushiho. Robin and I once had a discussion about matching up katas with Senseis, "Sensei Mackay-wara is kusanku" "Sensei Ramsen is chinto" and then, I recall saying "Sensei Garcia, gojushiho." Robin couldn't agree anymore, "Oh yeah, he OWNS gojushiho" Since I never learned gojushiho, anyone who knows it, please do it for him, since I cannot.

My 1st year Chinese history teacher at Mount Holyoke, told me something in class once that I will never forget; "They say that you aren't really dead, until you've been forgotten"

Which is why, I don't believe Sensei Garcia ever will die---his spirit, teachings, and memories will pass on from student to student, years and years from now...he will always be remembered for his passion and dedication to karate, and even years later, we will still feel his spirit guiding us through class, clapping his hands after each kata count.

Thank you for all of the memories Sensei,
I am so glad that we met,
--Cherry blossom (Katie Roche)

The Ueshiro Hawaii Karate Dojo would like to send our condolences to Sensei Garcia's Family!

To Sensei Garcia:

"You're in our thoughts.
Please know how much
you are loved
and how deeply
your loss is felt by all."

Ueshiro Hawaii Karate Dojo, Sensei Lorenzo Aguon

During my last trip up to New York City in April 2008. I experienced the wonderful joy of becoming a grand father, my daughter then 24 years old gave birth to a beautiful & healthy bouncing baby boy on April 18Th 6:28PM. He and my daughter were fine, this was a great relief to me. Just one week prior she had taken a fall at work and was hospitalized for 24 hours for observation. My daughter continues to send me new photos weekly. The joy of seeing Aiden evolve is overwhelming. I cannot help but smile and becoming giddy at times!

I had driven to New York three weeks prior to my grand son's birth just to be around my little girl. For just another mile stone in her life. Having being there at her birth, and so many other things we see our children accomplish and guide them through. It was only fitting that I be there when she her self was about to give new life to another soul. After Aiden was home and everything seemed to be going swimmingly, I packed up my bags and came back home to my new family here in Florida. I couldn't see myself leaving though with my new Honda, how would my daughter and my grandson get around? I just couldn't bare to think of them traveling around in public transportation or even worse some old second hand jalopy that she may get her hands on... So I gave her my Honda and flew back.

During that visit I also had the great joy of visiting with a great man, a great warrior! It was a brief visit, but very much like all my encounters with him very memorable. Garcia Sensei was looking his mortality right in the face and not even blinking... We watched some black belt channel NYC cable has it going on! Then a little Sister Sensei followed by The Dave and Eddie show!

It was an incredible experience! Sitting with Sensei (Kyoshi, Sensei's & Sempai) we all laughed and I felt the awe in the air. Delores was as gracious and hospitable as always and Sensei was AMAZING...

Garcia Sensei gave me many gifts for some reason he thought I needed them. I could never refuse him. Today not only will I train with Sensei in mind but I will wear a gi he gave me with my first red patch!

Domo arigato gozaimasu Garcia Sensei!
A Big Walking Knows No Gate...
Carmelo Aleman

Most of you who were there, I am sure remember my little kid (Muhammad Jalloh) who tested for his first green tip during our 45th anniversary celebrations in Virginia. I must let you all know today that this was made possible by Sensei Garcia. Me and my son had traveled all the way from New York and during the trip he vomited more that six times. Before we got to the dojo that morning he vomited again three times and used the bathroom three times. He looked very sick and weak that morning. I gave up. I was sitting in the dojo contemplating taking him back home when Sensei Garcia noticed. He came over and asked what was wrong with him. I told him the story. He immediately took over, he gave him Gatorade and a remarkable dose off energy. I would never be able to explain how or what he did but what I do know is he was able to give a big does of energy to my son and myself. The boy ended up testing and received complements from everyone that was there.

Why do we practice karate was a thought of the week and my answer is: so I can be like Sensei Garcia when the inevitable death stares me in the face. I want to be able to look at him "right in the face and not blink" as Camelo said Sensei Gacia did. I want to be able to "fight till the end, "till there is nothing left to fight for" like Kyoshi said he did. We are taught all the skills we need to fight when we have to but are told to walk away from a fight. However the ultimate battle of death will come one day and I hope and pray I would not be a coward that dies a thousand times before my death. I hope I will be able to stand up and fight like Sensei Gacia and free my spirit. Sensei Garcia's spirit lives on, he did not loose it in battle. As Kyoshi Mackay said: we should now celebrate this man's remarkable evolution as a martial artist.

Ibrahima Jalloh, Yon Kyu, Hombu Dojo

Sensei Garcia's passion for Karate and for Life were clear from the first time I met him.
He will be greatly missed by myself and by all of his students in Northampton, MA.

Respectfully,
Lou Ruvolo

I am so humbled by this loss. I am away on business and am so grateful for these emails. I apologize for my loss for words. All I can say is that I feel honored to have known him and been privileged enough to have had Eddie Garcia as a Sensei. Thank you all for telling such wonderful stories. I cannot wait to join in a Garcia-dedicated workout with my extended karate family and laugh and cry together.

Delores, Sensei Garcia once asked me if it was okay to think of me as an adopted granddaughter. After having lost my only grandfather a few years ago, I told him I would be honored if I could think of him as my adopted grandfather. Please know that I will never be able to express how much he meant to me, and that although you lost your Eddie, you will never lose your extended karate family. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Domo arigato to all of you for coming together in this way.

With joy and Vigor,
Candace Morgan

Sensei Garcia

You taught me so much about the meaning of joy! Your enthusiasm for karate, for people, and for life itself was positively infectious and seeped into the hearts of each person crossing your path. Without fail, we could rely on YOU whenever Kyoshi Mackay or Kyoshi Baker would ask the group, "Does anyone have anything to add?" Boy did you ever have something to say! You would speak up with a beaming smile and tell a story that we had usually heard several times before, but you'd tell like it was the first time! The story would wander and you'd have us all laughing a bit,regaling us with a tale of your "life on the streets" and tossing in random metaphors in a way that only you could do.

And just as you are often first to speak, you were always the first to greet a new visitor wandering into the dojo. You are the first to break formation and walk across the deck, demonstrating and teaching a new student. You are the first to assemble small groups of kata before a big workout. Without ego or bravado, you are a leader showing us the way.

You were always SO supportive and reassuring. You made us all feel good about ourselves It did not matter the problem or obstacle, it WOULD be overcome with certainty. A big man walking knows no gate, indeed.

Looking back, I found this picture of you and I. It was taken in Washington last summer at the 45th anniversary. I was testing, and afterwards you made a point of telling me I did good and that you were proud of me. I didn't notice at the time, but now I see it, that unmistakable gleam in your eye! Ah, yes, you always had that didn't you! The half-cocked smile and the sparkle in your eye that let us all know, just as you are now, that everything was going to be alright.

Domo Arigato Gozaimasu, Sensei. We are all going to miss you......

Larry Link

As all of are, I am deeply saddened by this extraordinary man's passing. He was largely responsible for my stepping on to the deck ten years ago. His enthusiasm, joy and vigor have obviously been a blessing to so many. I will never forget the first time he demonstrated a double punch to me, exploding with "BAM! BAM!" as he punched. His dedication to karate and his way of making each of us feel so special is a gift to remember and keep. His spirit, so strong in life, will be with us each day we remember him. And to Delores and all of you who were particularly close to Eddie, my most sincere condolences,

Arigato, Lisa Harvey

When we relayed the sad news that Sensei Garcia had passed away to our daughter, Hannah, she immediately responded, ?Oh, how sad. He was the really nice Sensei from New York that gave me money when I lost my tooth on deck during one of the workouts at the midtown dojo.? Although she had met him but half a dozen times, his kindness and actions made a lasting impression on her. His humility touched us all. His was the first smiling face to greet us when we visited the midtown dojo, his words of encouragements radiated from the walls of our Virginia dojo when he visited us, and the stories that he shared with us over dinner after those workouts warmed our hearts.

Although our karate family has lost a truly great warrior and gentleman, it is only in body. His spirit shines on. Our deepest condolences go to his wife, Dolores. Our lives are so much richer for having known and worked out with him.

Domo arigato,
Lisa, Patrick, Hannah, and Jonah Markowitz, East Meets West Karate Club of Northern Virginia

I personally am very saddened by the loss of Sensei Garcia. He was a welcoming force for me when I was in Midtown. I remember we would spend time every week before my class working on Chinto. His class was right before mine and he would stay around to work with me.

My thoughts and condolences go out to his family, and to the rest of us who were fortunate to know him. He was always a great spirit on the deck, and a warrior to the end.

Last night I dedicated our class to his spirit. We will be having a special class Monday night in his memory as well.

Arigato,
Sensei Brophy, Bushi Dojo

Friday 5:30 is Sensei Garcia's regular class at the Midtown Dojo in NY. Last night we had a memorial workout dedicated to him. We burned incense as Sam Suzuki recommended in a previous email. Sensei Melton brought tea and soup according to Sensei Lai's email as well. It was also our first class back at the St. Bart's location.

Just before the class started, Ik Kyu Serge from the Lexington Ave Dojo showed up after a 2-year hiatus. He was unaware of Sensei's passing but wanted to resume his training, under Sensei Garcia's leadership and spirit. We welcomed him back and told him he picked the right night to return, and that he can't leave again.

Sensei's huge spirit is definitely with us everywhere. Domo arigato Sensei Garcia

Ron Ballin, Ik Kyu, Ueshiro Midtown Karate Dojo

DEAR ALL!
THE SHABBAT FINISHED AND I OPENED MY COMPUTER AND I SAW SO MANY E.MAILS ABOUT SENSEI GARCIA..........MY HEART AND MY BLOOD STOPPED FOR SECONDS.....MY GOOD FRIEND EDDIE NOT ANYMORE WITH US, WHAT A LOSS!

EDDIE, WE SPOKE MANY TIMES AND ALL THE TIME YOU ASKED ME, SHLOMO WHEN YOU ARE AGAIN IN N.Y. I WANT TO SEE YOU? AND I SAYED ALL THE TIME...I HOPE SOON I MISS ALL AND TO TRAIN WITH HANSHI AND TO BE WITH YOU EDDIE..... BUT IN LAST 5YEARS I DIDNT HAVE THE CHANCE TO COME TO USA AND..... I AM SORRY EDDIE ,PLEASE FORGIVE ME! EDDIE,YOU WILL BE IN MY HEART AND MY THOUGHTS FOREVER I DONT HAVE MUCH TO SAY.

SHLOMO DADON, EILAT, ISRAEL

To All Members,

Today Saturday 14 June 2008 the Florida Blackbelts & Ikyu met to dedicate a workout to the life & memory of Sensei Garcia.

At 10am we were joined by Kyu ranks from 10am to 11:30am. At 11:30 the Blackbelts & Ikyu continued training until 12:30pm. At the end of the memorial workout we demonstrated Pinan Go-Dan & Gojushiho Kata, two of Garcia Sensei's favorite kata(as I recall). Fukyugata San was demonstrated by the group as a final tribute.

I announced that Sensei Garcia's presence was with us during the workout & any time we wish, we may think of him... & he will be there...as he was always there for so many so often; as referenced the numerous Email descriptions.

Most Sincerely, Hanshi Robert Scaglione.

Sensei, it was a privilege to train with you. It was a privilege to sit with you. It was a privilege to make food for you and just listen to you. Thank you for being the example of how to greet a new student on the deck. Thank you for reminding us that karate is the karate, and it's not easy, but that you always cared about the person training the karate. Thank you for reminding me less than two weeks ago to "step first".

Domo Arigato Gozaimasu Sensei - you will forever live in my heart, my husband's and that of my children.

Amy Mager

Onegai Shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei, and fellow Deshi-

Today we held our second of many classes dedicated to the HUGE Spirit of Sensei Garcia at St. Bart's. It seems fitting that just as Sensei Garcia sent us Serge from the Lexington Ave Dojo yesterday he sent us a first day student today. Heidi Tallentire took her first class in Shorin-Ryu Karate USA today at 10:45, and her second class at Noon. I believe Sensei Garcia sent this student to us. Who else, but Sensei Garcia would send us a student who would take back to back classes on her first day. This was just the next of many more steps in Sensei Garcia's wish to continue the line.

Today I gave the class 3 basic corrections: step big (A big walking knows no gate.), lengthen the line, and hit HARD!!! I had received these corrections from Sensei Garcia many times myself.

After class we told some Sensei Garcia stories. Some of us were speechless at the loss of such a great warrior with tears in our eyes, while others tried the best we could to put into words the man who knew how to befriend everyone. Muhammad Jalloh told us the secret to his recovery during the 45th Anniversary Promotion. He said Sensei Garcia told him to simply, "Make a choice." While Sensei Garcia often told long stories sometimes he kept it simple and just told it how it was. I wish I could tell the perfect Sensei Garcia story, but there are so many. I will just say I always felt great in his presence. He was and is larger then life.

My deep felt wishes go out to Delores and the rest of the Garcia family.

Domo Arigato Gozaimasu-
Rob Neff

Onegai-Shimasu to all Deshi-

The Ueshiro Virginia Karate Club dedicated our 9am workout Saturday in memory of Sensei Eddie Garcia. Sensei had visited our dojo with Hanshi on numerous occasions.

Sensei always let us know how proud he was of our fledgling club- giving us encouragement, raising the spirit on the deck, and captivating us with his stories of adventure from the streets of NYC.

For this workout, Sensei's Garcia's picture was placed in prominence on the Shinden wall. All deshi were encouraged to tap into Sensei?s spirit to raise their level of training. After the bowout, we shared our stories/recollections of Sensei Garcia.

Sensei you will be greatly missed in Virginia.

In attendance at Saturday's class were: Sensei Joe Knight; Sensei Patrick Markowitz; Ms. Lisa Markowitz; Hanna Markowitz; Mr. Shabbir Kazmi; Murtaza Rizvi; Jim Davis; Sam Suzuki (Visiting from the NYC Dojo); Sandra Suzuki (Visiting from the NYC Dojo)

Onegai-Shimasu Hanshi- Kyoshi- Deshi

I was saddened greatly to hear of the passing of Garcia Sensei. I have read many of the responses and would like to take this time to recount when I first met Sensei Garcia. It was at my first beach workout in Connecticut.

Max, then 7yrs old, and I traveled with others from the Northampton Dojo to train alongside members from NY, CT, & NJ. As we came together for the initial warm up exercises I remember seeing a man approach a group of children. . He was a black belt wearing sun glasses. ( At that time he was the only one wearing sunglasses that I had noticed.) I immediately thought who is this guy?

His body lean, his face weathered, his voice horse and commanding. He was speaking to the children, giving them direction on how to line up and reminding them of the courtesy they were to display while training with others on the beach. He was the only black belt that worked with the children that day. His voice rang out with such force that you thought he was given the responsibility of training raw recruits in the military.

I watched and listened while still trying to maintain my focus on the black belt leading our group. At first I thought this guy was going a bit over board for these were only kids. It was then I noticed the smile on Sensei Garcia's face. Most of the kids had worked so hard that they were close to being knee deep in sand and could no longer turn to make their down blocks. At that point he began to lift each of the smaller children out of their places and had the bigger kids move out of the ruts they had created on the beach.

After being relocated by Sensei they started again, training just as hard as they had before.. At this time Sensei began making his usual corrections. A turn of the wrist here, a change in foot placement there. Instructing the children to Kaia with each punch. Every correction he made he made with a gentleness and caring like that of a father to his child.

As we concluded our workout we broke down into groups for the last kata of the day. The children were the last group to perform their kata. They lined up upon his command facing the open water. Sensei was up front giving the count while performing performing Fukyugata ichi with the group. Their Kiai resounded down the length of the beach displaying the same energy as the adults before them. At the conclusion of the kata Sensei turned to bow to the children and as he did I could not help but see the proud look on his face.

He had worked with the children the entire workout without once asking anyone to take his place. He had worked with each child individually to help them perfect their kata that day. His act of selfless dedication to the art of Shorin -Ryu Karate and to the children that trained that day has stayed with me throughout my years of practice.

As many of you have commented in your writings we have lost a great warrior. To that I would like to add a great mentor. Not only to the adults that have had the honor of training with him but to the countless number of children he has worked with over the years. Your spirit lives on in my household and in our hearts.

Arigato,
Sempai Gary Bivona, Max & Nico

Onegai Shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei, & fellow Deshi,

Today, the Kaplans had a special work out in our garden in the West Midlands of England. In celebration of the circle of life, Ben joined us, making this his first karate class.

We all cared deeply for Eddie and we will miss him as a powerful Sensei, a warm friend, a skilled presenter (for many years, he served as guest lecturer for my Introduction to Psychology class at the Borough of Manhattan Community College), and as a member of our family.

Our condolences to Delores and the entire Garcia family.

Domo Arigato Gozaimasu,
Sensei Matt Kaplan

Sensei Garcia had a great smile and a great laugh. As I think of him now, I see that smile and I hear that laugh and I find that I am smiling.
My memories of him on and off the deck are of a man with an enormous spirit, a bright disposition, and time for a friend or fellow karateka.

We have all lost something precious.

My sincere condolences to Delores at the passing of an outstanding man.

Domo Arigato,
William Kolbert

Garcia Sensei would always tell of how I was one of his first teachers when he was a white belt.
He would compliment me in setting him on the right path in his training.
What he did not realize is that he taught me more than he would ever know.
He was the real teacher and I was the white belt.
He was an inspiration and we will miss him.

Mark and Deby Goldenberg

Sensei Garcia was a light in the dojo every time he was there.
An honorable and kind man with a relationship with everyone in the dojo that was truly outstanding... whether you're a new deshi or fellow sensei that seemed to be life-long friends, Sensei Garcia brought warmth with him and distributed in every class.

Domo arigato Gozaimasu,
Stephen Day, Charlotte, NC

I am at a loss for words...I have being training in Midtown for some time now. Sensei has had such an impact on the way I look at karate . I remember when we moved out of the old dojo I came with my" big white truck" as Sensei called it. He smiled and must have said thanks about a hundred times that day. I was a white belt then and fairly new to Sensei... but after we finished moving out of the dojo he smiled at me and said thanks one more time and gave me a big HUG! He made me feel like "Family"......

Ever since that day I felt like I found my Home! And every time I walk into the dojo ....I feel like im walking into my home. He was a role model for me without ever noticing that he was. I trained today in the dojo and felt his presence. there is a small picture of Sensei and a few incense in a holder on a mantle underneath the pictures of the shinden. I know that he would want me to tell EVERYONE TO KEEP TRAINING! I lost a Sensei but I feel like I lost "Family" Well I did....my Karate Family!!!

I will miss you Sensei...

Domo arigato Gozaimasu!
James Gasca, Humbo Dojo Midtown St. Barts

My sincerest condolences to Sensei Garcia?s family.

Onegai-shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei, and Fellow Deshi,

It would be difficult to recount all the sugar that I have received from Sensei Garcia. As I have thought about Sensei Garcia since learning of his passing, a few things have been foremost in my mind. The first happened several years ago at the Lexington Ave. Hombu location at an open house for potential new students. As part of the event there was to be a breaking demonstration, but the brick would not break despite the diligent attempts of two black belts much bigger and taller than Sensei Garcia (and great karateka in their own right). There was a moment's hesitation and it seemed that the breaking aspect of the demonstration was to be left there. However, Sensei Garcia stepped forward and broke the brick. He Just Did It.

As others have mentioned, "A Big Walking Know No Gate" was one of his favorite karate sayings. Sensei Garcia's walk along the Ueshiro Shorin-Ryu path knew no gate and, as others have said, knows no gate even today. His walk was long in years (although we all wish that it would have lasted many more years) and it was broad - he shared our art with hundreds of deshi now spread far and wide, as the emails that have poured in from across the globe attest. As others have suggested, his spirit will always be with us on our journey on the Way.

Lastly, we dedicated Sunday's class at the Boston Chinatown club to Sensei. One deshi on the deck had the honor of receiving Sensei Garcia's instruction at events in the years past and remembered Sensei Garcia's complimenting the deshi's performance of Fukyugata Ichi. This is one of the thousands of instances of Sensei's encouragement and magnaminity (of the higher order), one of the Virtues of Warrior, all of which Sensei Garcia both exemplified and emphasized for all of us. For the other deshi, it was his first class. He said that he would be back for his next class. I believe it is how Sensei Garcia would have wanted it.

Domo arigato gozaimasu Sensei.
Domo arigato gozaimasu to all.
Emiliano Mazlen

Onegai Shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei's and all Deshi,

Trevor and I had the opportunity to train with Sensei Garcia a couple of years ago when we were visiting NYC. What a great class! As great as the class was, it was outdone by the dinner afterwords. He directed us to a great little Italian restaurant nearby, where he insisted we sit outside despite the somewhat threatening weather. The skies cleared, as if in deference to Sensei Garcia, and we enjoyed a wonderful two hour dinner.

Sensei Garcia regaled us with story after story, making us laugh and smile so much my cheeks were literally sore after awhile. During the first few minutes of his story telling I wondered if he wasn't embellishing a bit. After about ten minutes I no longer cared if the stories will filled with hyperbole or just plain fiction - we were having too good of time to care. After dinner, Sensei Garcia gave us all his contact information and was insisted that if we needed anything at all he was there to provide it for us. As Trevor and I walked back to our hotel afterwords we were retelling some of the stories he shared. As funny as these were, we quickly realized they weren't nearly as funny as when Sensei Garcia told them.

Sensei Garcia was truly one of a kind and will be truly missed. Our prayers and wishes are with Delores, the rest of his family and his extended karate family.

Domo Arigato Gozaishimasu,
Kurt Tezel

Onegai Shimasu Hanshi, Kyoshi, Sensei and Sempai,

I am pleased to announce, that tonight, we dedicated our 7:00pm class at the Cocoa YMCA dojo, to Eddie Garcia in honor of all the caring and warm memories he has left with so many. Even though I did not have the fortune of knowing Sensei Garcia, I was greatly saddened to hear of the loss of a fellow Karateka.

As a child, I was told that when special people (such as Sensei Garcia) pass on, it is as if they have stepped into a closet and simply removed the suit they wore that day. The fact is, they are still there, just not in the same stature.

I can tell by the comments that I?ve read, that he was a special person (both on and off the deck) and I feel he still is. I know from all the heart felt condolences, that he touched many lives during his journey with us and that his spirit is still here, as memories in our minds and fond affections in our hearts.

On behalf of the Cocoa YMCA dojo, my most sincere and humble condolences go out to the Garcia family and his wife Dolores. He and his family are in my prayers.

Domo arigato gozaimasu Garcia Sensei!

Ms. Eddy, Cocoa YMCA

This is a note from my son Shane Scaglione. -Sincerely Hanshi

-forwarded note-
Pop,

It is sad that Eddie is gone, yet I know that he is w/o pain and in a better place. His death is a reminder of transmigration, impermanence i.e. that nothing is stable and lasting.

As the Dalai Lama says, "We are on this earth 90 to 100 years at the very most, in this incarnation, and the goal of life should be to bring some joy or happiness to each other" and in those words I think Eddie did just that. He lived life with gusto, and made us all laugh and was always helping wherever he went. Let us remember the good times and laughs of him, and let his death be a reminder of the death that we are all to face, in a few years or 30 to 40 years. From death there is life, and because life is fleeting, it makes us fully use this time for what is really important: to be of service to others, to have insight into our true being, and to appreciate and enjoy every sandwich in the words of the late great musician Warren Zevon.

As ever, Shane

There are so many meaningful & heart felt expressions of how deeply Sensei Garcia touched all our lives. There is much I could say about fond memories I have of times spent with him, training, sharing or just talking on the phone. He was not only a warrior spirit, but a real friend of the deepest level. What strikes me the most when I think of Eddie is that he was the living definition of the word Sensei: He had the uncanny ability to see deep inside of everyone and find the riches and value within that person. Then he took the time and love to help the individual learn how to cultivate & find the beauty of those values within themselves.

Onegai Shimasu
Shelley Schlossberg

Hanshi Scaglione,

I was visiting the shorin ryu website as I often do and was deeply saddened by the news of Sensei Eddie Garcia's death. When I first met Eddie I knew right away that he was a man of conviction and huge spirit. His tireless effort and dedication on the deck was only matched by his genuine compassion and big smile for anyone he came in contact with. He disarmed you with kindness and sincerity. Eddie didn't come to the dojo to learn to fight, for this was something he already knew well. He came to find the inner light within and I believe he found it, he conquered the inner struggle we all face in life and by example he poured that onto anyone he came in contact with, on or off the deck.

Stars can go out but their light shines forever, Eddie was such a star, and I will deeply miss him. We have lost a brother but his light will shine on all of us forever.

Please extend my deepest felt sympathy to his beloved wife Delores and all the Deshi.

Yours in the Budo,
Lou Suffredini

On behalf of the Garcia family, I would like to thank the entire Shorin Ryu Karate community, led by Hanshi Robert Scaglione, for all their letters, visits, phone calls and other gestures of support in both word and deed during my Eddie's illness. What Eddie loved most about karate - even more than the skills and philosophy - was the people. You were his friends throughout, and he embraced you with all his heart for your willingness to embrace him. I don't know what we would have done without you.

It would be impossible to list all of you by name, but I want to mention David Seeger, Kevin Reymond, Michael Mackay, Ron Ballin and Lisa Rosenberg for their kindness and assistance in very stressful times. Although the loss of Eddie is unbearable, I believe his passing has brought all of us closer together. And may we always keep Eddie close to our hearts.

With deepest gratitude,

Delores