Sensei Michael Delaney

[Mary S]

DELANEY, Michael Sabastian - 50, Halifax, passed away peacefully Tuesday, September 9, 2003, in the VG Site, QEII, Halifax. Born in Halifax, he was a son of the late William Patrick and Hilda E. (Gibb) Delaney. Michael first entered the workforce holding a position as a draftsman, employed by the Province of Nova Scotia in its architectural design and construction branch for almost 30 years. During his time with the province he progressed to become the branch's specification writer. He took much pride in both his and the team's ability to produce buildings, meeting client's needs.

Michael was a very active volunteer within his community, enjoying the time spent with Scout's Canada as a leader for the local Beaver Colony held at St. Margaret's of Scotland Church and introducing many adults and children to the sport of archery through the Osprey Archery Club. Michael had a special fondness for karate, kobujutus (classical Okinawan weapons), and Iaido (Japanese swordsmanship). He was a founding member of the Atlantic Karate Club in Halifax, devoting some 35 years to the study, promotion and preservation of the Chito Ryu System of Karate and classical Okinawan weapons.

Michael's experiences in these areas enabled him to assist various martial art organizations in their development. During his career he created the Nova Scotia Karate Association (1972), the Canadian Chito Ryu Karate Association (1979), and the Society for the Promotion and Preservation of the Ryukyu Classical Martial Arts (1995), in conjunction with other interested parties. Michael was a major contributor to the production of Technical Manuals for the Canadian Chito Ryu Karate Do Association (1986) and the Society for the Promotion and Preservation of the Ryukyu Classical Martial Arts (2002). Since 1992, he took on the responsibility of Master Course Conductor for evaluating and promoting the National Coaching and Certification Program for the National Karate Association. Michael particularly enjoyed teaching Chito Ryu Karate. Well respected for his ability to teach, Michael provided technical courses provincially, nationally and internationally to thousands of interested individuals over his career. His technical skill and teaching abilities were formally recognized by the international Chito Ryu Karate Federation in 2001.

Michael was awarded his Rokyudan (6th dan black belt) and Renshi, advanced teaching diploma. Michael also attained Sandan (3rd dan) in Kobujutsu and Nidan (2nd dan) in Iaido. During his career, he held administrative, technical advisory and coaching positions for many organizations.

He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Cheryl Anne (Webster); sons, William Patrick, Gregory Sebastian; brother, Patrick William, Lower Sackville; sister, Catherine Harriet (Delaney) Glencross, Port Elgin, N.B. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by sister, Deborah Rita (Delaney) Lewis; infant son, Colin Michael Edward. Visitation will be 2-4, 7-9 p.m. Thursday in Cruikshank's Halifax Funeral Home, 2032 Robie St., Halifax (423-7295). Funeral service 10 a.m. Friday in St. Stephen's Church, 6032 Normandy Dr., Halifax, Father, Gilbert Bertrand O.M.I. officiating. The family will hold a private burial at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Canadian Chito Ryu Karate Do Association, Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of choice. On-line condolences to: 1066@alderwoods.com

[chef]

Dear Mary,
I didn't know Sensei Michael Delaney but wish to extend my condolences to you and his family. That is a young age to leave this world. Obviously, he was a amazing and giving man, contributing so much to the martial arts world.

May God grant all who loved him peace and comfort during these sad days to follow. My prayers are with you and his family.

God bless,
Vicki

[Bill Glasheen]

Mary

It's always good to hear from you, even when the news is not good.

My best wishes to the family.

- Bill