29.10.1939 – 19.01.2026
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our father, Hanshi Shiro Asano.
He dedicated his life to spreading the art and discipline of Karate; shaping skilled Karate-ka, instilling spirit, values, and confidence, and leading and building the family of SKIF-GB.
To so many of you, he was more than an instructor; he was a role model, a mentor, a guide, a friend, and someone who stood tall. He brought energy, a sense of humour, humility, and a big heart into every room he entered.
He was larger than life, brave, honest, and always the life and soul of the party; someone who lived fully, laughed loudly, and gave generously. His legacy lives on in the countless personal memories each of you will carry: lessons from the dojo that stayed with you long after training ended, trips away, and conversations shared over a beer and a social after “hard training”.
This is very recent and as such there are no arrangements yet. Our family kindly ask that you respect our privacy at this sad time.
Thank you for being part of his Karate family, which he loved with all his heart. His spirit lives on in every student he taught and every life he has touched over the last 86 years.
We will forever love and miss him. In his own words:
“One life, must enjoy, Oss!”
🏯 Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo – Tribute and Representation
Members of Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo attended the funeral of Hanshi Shiro Asano to pay their respects, representing both the dojo and the many students whose training has been shaped by his guidance.
Those in attendance included, by invitation:
- Steve Ashby
- Nick Bruce-Jones
- Neil Bishop
The service was held at Gedling Crematorium and attended by SKIF-GB instructors, past and present. Following the service, many gathered at The Embankment to share memories and reflect on Hanshi’s life and legacy.
🕊 A Lasting Influence
For many within SKIF-GB, Hanshi Asano was far more than an instructor—he was a guiding influence and, to many, a father figure within karate.
For Steve Ashby, Hanshi’s influence spanned over four decades, having trained under his guidance since 1984. For Nick Bruce-Jones, this connection extends even further, beginning in 1979.
Over these many years, his teaching and guidance have played a significant role not only in their karate, but in their lives more broadly. His impact on the SKIF-GB community, and on individuals across generations, has been profound and enduring.
🙏 Continuing His Legacy
Hanshi Asano’s influence on Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo, and on traditional karate as a whole, cannot be overstated. His teaching, principles, and example continue to shape the way we train and the values we pass on to our students.
We remain deeply grateful for his guidance and will continue to honour his legacy through our training.
Oss – with deepest respect to Hanshi Asano
押忍