05/13/2026
It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we share the passing of our friend, colleague, and respected instructor, Master Dennis Fennell.
Sensei Dennis came to our dojo from another Shotokan school in the western United States, where he trained under Grandmaster Robert Graves. From the moment he joined our dojo family, he brought with him not only a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience, but also kindness, humility, and a genuine passion for teaching others.
For the past 10 years, Sensei Dennis dedicated himself to teaching students at both our Newark and Granville campuses. He had a special ability to connect with both children and adults, and his students deeply appreciated his patience, encouragement, and wisdom. His love for karate extended far beyond technique — he taught discipline, respect, perseverance, and lessons about life itself.
I am personally grateful for the time we shared together. I always admired his deep knowledge of karate and sparring, but even more than that, I valued his friendship, conversations, and the many moments we spent together both inside and outside the dojo.
Sensei Dennis leaves behind a lasting impact on our dojo and on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be greatly missed, but his teachings, spirit, and friendship will continue to live on through all of us.
To honor and remember Sensei Dennis, we will be holding a small memorial gathering at the dojo on May 30th beginning at 11:00 a.m. Family, friends, students, and all whose lives he touched are welcome to attend and share in remembering a truly remarkable man.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and students during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Sensei Dennis. Your legacy will never be forgotten.
Memorial Service
951 Buckeye Ave
Newark, Ohio 43055.
