"In Loving Memory"

September 22, 1937 - June 25, 2011

"I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one,

I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.

I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,

of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.

I'd like the tears of those who grieve, 

to dry before the sun. 

Of happy memories that I leave when life is done..."

Kyoshi Bud Shafer was the U.S.A. Representative of Yamashita International Budo Association.

Kyoshi Shafer began his formal martial arts training while in the U.S. Navy, 1957.  He also held a 3rd degree black belt in Isshinryu karate and Kodokan Judo.

Bud Shafer Kyoshi

8th Dan Shorinryu Karatedo

6th Dan Matayoshi Kobudo

In 1967, he began training with Master Tadashi Yamashita.  In 1971, with the approval of Master Yamashita, he moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to spread the influence of Okinawan karate and kobudo.  He taught Master Yamashita's karate, suikendo, kobudo, and Matayoshi kobudo at Nova Southeastern University,  Davie, Florida.