We are deeply sad to announce the passing of Lewis Cuffy, Godan (5th Dan) in Aikido, on March 20, 2021. He was the Head Instructor of our exemplary Youth Program, a senior instructor of the adult classes, a pillar of Aikido Shobukan Dojo and a mentor to young and adults in our diverse Aikido Schools of Ueshiba community.
Lewis, or Mr. Cuffy as he was known by the many children and teenagers that he taught, ran the Youth Program for over two decades together with Sara Bluestone. Before starting Aikido, he had already excelled in the arts of Judo and Karate. He had a lifelong commitment to paying attention to the principles of the art of Aikido and understanding the reasons behind any posture, technique, and movement, as transmitted directly to him by our teacher Mitsugi Saotome Sensei. He was generous, rigorous, receptive, and beloved by the hundreds of children, teens and parents who have gone through our Dojo. He knew each one of his students, fostered their emotional and physical growth, and expected the same standards of excellence from young and old. His natural bass voice radiated presence while sharing the principles of the art. Through teaching he emphasized the value of human decency, the importance of trying even if failing at first, and always working towards improvement. We will miss him deeply.
Our heart and condolences go to his partner Sara Bluestone and to his family.
Saturday April 3rd the doors of Aikido Shobukan Dojo will be open from
12-3pm for any members of our community to pay their last respects to Lewis
Cuffy Sensei. In line with CDC Guidelines, mask wearing and social
distancing of at least 6 feet apart will be necessary. No more than 20
people may be in the Dojo at any given time.
At 4pm EST all are welcomed to join the memorial via Zoom
(https://zoom.us/j/9011746784#success Passcode: 421421). We will honor and
celebrate the life of Lewis Cuffy by sharing stories, memories and the joy
and passion with which he taught and lived Aikido and life.
A small number of people, who will receive invitations, will attend the
memorial in-person at the Dojo.
This is an occasion to remember Lewis Cuffy and his teachings, and mark the
successful end of his earthly journey.
Please join via Zoom his partner Sara Bluestone and members of our
community at the Dojo.
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