Tag: grandmaster

Passing of Grandmaster Tompkins

Saddened to hear of the passing today of Grandmaster John Tompkins. He was always on hand with a word of encouragement and support, I found him fascinating to talk to and appreciated his ability to look you in the eye and give it to you straight without the sugar coating.

A man of his convictions and not afraid to call it as he saw it. My condolences to his family, members and close friends. The World is poorer for having lost you but grander for having had you my friend. Respect – Master Michael Muleta

From the ITF administration page:

Grand Master John Tompkins had an enormous passion for martial arts and Taekwon-Do in particular. He started as a young boy and stayed active in Taekwon-do throughout his life. He was respected and loved by many all over the world. One of his proudest moments was when President Choi Jung Hwa promoted him to the rank of 9th degree black belt at the 2014 World Championships in Rome, Italy. His passion could be fiery at times but it was his love and commitment to keeping Taekwon-do pure that drove him. He was a man who lived and died by his principles.