15/12/2025
Such sad news for the TaeKwon-Do community today.
Rest in Peace GM John Riordan.
Our deepest condolences to Claire and family π
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HrkZ5d2eC/
I am devastated to tell the Taekwon-Do world that my lifelong friend, brother, colleague, Grandmaster John Riordan has passed away after a battle with cancer. John leaves this world having enriched the lives of thousands of students, friends and family members. His Taekwon-Do life of more than 40 years has resulted in hundreds of black belts, numerous World Champions and more importantly, a tremendous positive influence in the local communities where he instructed. John was President of the Irish United Taekwon-Do Federation and Vice President of ITF UNION Europe.
John was a dedicated family man and my heart goes out to his wife Claire, son's Jack, Charlie, Sonny and his parents and brothers. I think we will never get over this loss but we will cherish the joyous memories and moments that we shared together over the decades.
He was my friend. He supported me throughout my life. We shared so much joy and laughter together, an endless treasure trove of rich memories. Along with Master Moriarty we grew a national organisation but more importantly we lived and shared our dreams. We are all broken hearted. It is said that the only real measure of our time here, is if we left the world as a better place than we found it. That is a metric that John has surpassed in spades. His love will live on in so many people.
Never forgotten, with deepest love always. May you rest in peace Brother.
Don Dalton.