International Karate League

Dear IKL Ohana,

Today is a sad day for our organization. Nishioka Shihan passed away Sunday morning around 10:30 am HST. He was hospitalized right after the new year with a blockage to his digestive track. Unfortunately, it was not able to be resolved despite medical care and he succumbed peacefully, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

I think I can speak for all, that he has been an incredible influence and example to each and every one of us. His love for the martial arts has been transformed into an organization that places character over physical skill, humility over achievement, and ohana over the individual. He spent his early adult years seeking knowledge, travelling to where the masters were, and sacrificing his time, money and energy into an endeavor that we have all reaped the benefits from. I, for one, was still figuring out my own life and family at that stage of my life. I am continually in awe of the man who has given so much to us and the world!

As we mourn his passing, we also give thanks for a life devoted to service, integrity, and love for his students. Nishioka Shihan’s legacy lives on in every dojo, every student, and every act of humility and respect he taught us to embody. Though he is no longer physically with us, his spirit and guidance remain firmly rooted in our hearts. May we honor him by walking forward together with unity, gratitude, and faithful commitment to the path he showed us.

Through Honesty and Sincerity, comes Faithfulness, Respect, Effort and Etiquette.

With a heavy heart and deep respect,

Stephen

Nidaime Shihan

01/11/2026