We are sad to report that Kizumi Hiate (Daihanshi, 8th Dan) of Atsugi Doin passed away today after a courageous battle with cancer.
Hiate sensei lived and breathed Shorinji Kempo - it was his very existence. He continued to teach classes at Atsugi Doin even as his health was failing since he was so passionate to pass on his skills to future generations while he could.
Hiate sensei also taught at several other branches including Tokai University and Tamagawa Juniors Branch and was a senior officer of the Kanagawa Shorinji Kempo Federation. He held several roles at Hombu, including Hombu Shidoin, and frequently travelled around Japan teaching Bekka Busen courses at the weekends.
In addition, he greatly supported the international development of Shorinji Kempo and assisted many branches around the world as a WSKO Instructor. Hiate sensei came to Toronto four times to teach us, including two official WSKO seminars that he led.
I first met Hiate sensei at the Tokai University Shonan School campus in 1985. I had practised Shorinji Kempo already for three years at that time, but I had never seen as great a master as him. I became his student and continued to study from him for the rest of his life. He was my father in Shorinji Kempo.
I cannot adequately express in words the depth of my gratitutde to Hiate sensei, his family and students for all their kind support. It is definitely true that Toronto Branch would not exist without you.
Gassho
John McCulloch
Branch Master
Toronto Branch
