08/28/2025
Inductee Highlight: Grandmaster Bud Ewing
Today we proudly celebrate Grandmaster Bud Ewing, a pillar of the Isshinryu community and a true friend to so many. In 1995, when the Isshinryu Hall of Fame was re-incorporated, Bud was elected to the Board of Directors and quickly became a fixture—dedicated to helping shape the Hall of Fame into the premier Isshinryu event worldwide. Just a few years later, in 1998, he was personally inducted into the Isshinryu Hall of Fame, an honor recognizing his lifelong commitment to the art and its people.
Grandmaster J.C. Burris, one of Bud’s closest friends, shared these words:
“I consider Bud Ewing to be one of my very best friends. I first met him at the Isshin-Ryu Hall of Fame in the early nineties as he accompanied his instructor, Toby Cooling. Bud and I became instant friends – that’s the kind of person Bud is. He is always eager to learn and experience new things – all types of music (most folks don’t know that he is a pretty good singer), and certainly all topics concerning martial arts. We have had numerous discussions concerning our respective Isshin-ryu organizations. He is always eager to hear alternative explanations and always eager to share his own explanations. Carol and I have been friends with Bud and Ellen for decades – attending various karate events, or just sharing fun times together. These lasting friendships all began because of the Isshinryu Hall of Fame.”
Grandmaster Bud Ewing, we celebrate you—not only for your contributions to Isshinryu, but for the friendships you’ve built, the unity you’ve inspired, and the joy you continue to bring to our community. Thank you for all you have done, and all you continue to do, to strengthen the legacy of Isshinryu Karate.
Join us in the comments, celebrating Grandmaster Ewing!!