Founder of American

Goju-Ryu Karate

The death of Grand Master Peter Urban, signals the end of an era, which has seen the loss of many of our larger than life Pioneers of the Martial Arts, in the United States . On the other hand, this giant among men, has left behind a new and aggressive group of devotees, who will carry forth his tradition of excellence, tenacity, honor and loyalty. I first met “The Master, Urban” in 1959, when my Master, Hanshi Donald H. Nagle had me drive him to China town, from North Carolina, in order to fight the students of head of Goju-ryu karate in all of the United States. He was at his peak at that time and actually startled me with his enthusiasm and vigor. While his students practiced their basic movements, in unison, Master Urban beat an enormous Japanese drum, to set the pace. When it seemed that everyone was exhausted, he suddenly screamed outside and leading his students he took them for a bare-foot run around China Town . Unusual, even in an art that fostered unique individuals. Sensei Nagle, knowing Peter Urban for many years, simply smiled at me, since his workouts were also torturous and hard hitting. When they reappeared, I began to fight his students, while Master Urban took that time to Sinban the matches, in his classic and masterful manner, which later became part of the enjoyment of future tournaments. Despite the fact that I seemed to do well fighting his students, Master Urban thanked me for attending class, praised me for my skill and was generally generous in his attitude toward our visit. He was in the style of the old Sensei's, whose doors were always open to fighters. I was so impressed by his presence, that in later years, working in NYC, I would often stop by his dojo and either workout with him or simply sit and listen to his feelings on the karate scene and karate, in general.

He was one of a kind, unique, accessible and welcoming of all visitors. His loyalty to his students went beyond the dojo, to include karate-ka from other disciplines, such as Grand Master Don Nagle and myself. Only good friends would have performed a demonstration match of giants that stood above all others in America and trusted that their friendly opposition would not become a contest of wills, but, instead, a display of two different styles and techniques, ending with a hand shake. Neither participant ever claimed victory, because they valued their friendship more. Perhaps now they are still doing demos for a Supreme Master. Peter Urban will be missed for a myriad of reasons, but will live in our hearts and minds forever. Thank you for your friendship, Peter.

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