On Wednesday, October 3rd, 2012 Master Sifu lost his final battle against the pernicious disease, cancer.
It is a rare experience in our lives to meet someone we can admire, trust, and love as a friend and teacher. Such a blessing entered my son's and my life when we met *Sifu. But, we are not the only family who has experienced such a blessing who are now feeling the pain of broken hearts, losing someone who excelled in every aspect of "friend and teacher."
Sifu was a long time student of Quan Yin Kung Fu and a scientist-engineer who worked on the Space Shuttle from its beginning. While many of us marveled as Endeavor was retiring, one of her creators was facing his end, as well. His son told me he was able to watch Endeavor's final flight and the family was also sharing the Mars landing with him.
The service for Sifu will take place next Friday, October 12 at 1p.m., at St. Anthony's Parish, 2110 N. San Antonio, Upland. There will also be a gathering in his honor the following day at the studio. Details forthcoming.
For anyone who would like to write a special message to Sifu's family or share a memory of him; you will find a book at the studio where you can do so. The intention is to present it to his family after the service next week.
*Sifu: Traditionally, in Chinese martial arts, the term was used as a familial term and sign of respect as in the general usage. The term takes on a more intimate context when a student becomes a formal student or disciple of the teacher. (http://www.reference.com/browse/sifu)
Earlier Patch stories:
http://monrovia.patch.com/articles/quan-yin-kung-fu-owner-is-a-teacher-and-a-fighter
http://monrovia.patch.com/articles/tai-chi-instructor-brings-new-perspective-on-martial-arts-to-monrovia
http://monrovia.patch.com/articles/tai-chi-instructor-brings-new-perspective-on-martial-arts-to-monrovia
A little more about Quan Yin Kun Fu:
http://quanyinkungfu.com/Quan-Yin_Kung-Fu.html
P.S. Anyone wishing to leave a message on Patch please note I will print the Blog out and include it in the book. Thank you.
