02/06/2022
Hello all,
It is with a very heavy heart that we share that early this morning, surrounded by his children, Master Rock passed away due to complications from Covid-19. He gave everything he had to this fight and then some.
He is survived by 5 children (David, Laura, Charlie, Danni, and Jessica), his wife (Laurel), 8 siblings (Rory, Cindy, Gil – his twin, Gail, Vickie, Mark, Gary, and Patric), mom (Virginia), 6 grandchildren (Lucy, Mila, Titan, Boden, Yusuf, and Adam), and many cherished cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and godchildren.
He had a larger-than-life presence and was known for his charming smile, great big laugh, and being able to offer strength and encouragement to others in their times of need. He would do anything to make his children and grandchildren smile, whether this be breaking out in a goofy dance or silly song, wrestling or playing a game, or heading out for an adventure. There were few things he loved more than sharing a good meal with his family. He hosted and helped prepare many family meals, was known for making the best mashed potatoes and a mean pie, and almost always went up for (at least) seconds.
Growing up, he was a bright student, talented musician, gifted athlete, and more. When they were little, he and his twin Gil could trade places for the day without people noticing, and much mischief likely ensued. Though you could tell the difference between the two better as they grew older, their strong bond did not change.
Master Rock’s Tae Kwon Do school, which he built from the ground up, was an immense source of pride and joy for him. He strove to teach his students skills through TKD, such as discipline and control, that they could use not only in this beautiful art, but also in helping them navigate life outside the gym. His greatest satisfaction in running this school came from seeing you all learn, grow, and succeed. Thank you for being part of what was undoubtedly one of his proudest accomplishments.
Master Rock also was a veteran, proudly serving in Grenada, the Sinia Peninsula in Egypt, and Central America. He was part of the 82nd Airborne Special Forces and received his Combat Infantry Badge in Grenada. He was a big believer in our shared humanity and always tried to find the light and hope in situations.
We are having an incredibly hard time wrapping our minds around a world where Rock no longer walks this earth. We long for another chance to see his beautiful blue eyes or get one of his famous hugs, which always could help put you back together when you needed it most. Rock was a devout Catholic, relying on his faith to help see him through some of his most challenging times. We know that he would want us to have faith right now too, faith to know that someday, despite all of our heartbreak and sadness, truly all will be okay. Revelation 21: 4 says, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Thank you for everything, Master Rock. Our lives will never be the same, but we will also never forget you. May you rest in Peace and Power until we meet again.
