Kickboxing Champion and World Black Belt Founding Member passes away It is with great sadness we report that Kickboxing Champion and World Black Belt Founding Member Howard Jackson passed away March 7, 2006 11:00AM Tuesday morning, at the City of Hope hospital in Duarte, CA. He was cremated on March 14th, 2006. His memorial service was held on Saturday March 25, 2006 at 11:00AM. The service was held at: The First Church of The Nazarene 3700 E. Sierra Madre Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91107 Click Here for Map I, Sharon, will be returning to Texas to be with my 85 year old father. That address is: Sharon Welker 821 Downing Dr. Richardson, TX 75080 I am compiling a collection of photos of Howard to add to the book he was writing on his life that I intend to finish. If you have any photos that you feel would be of interest to others and the family, please send them to me at the Texas address. If you would like to contact me, my number is 972-898-9990. I would like to thank Bob & Lillian Wall, Chuck & Gena Norris and everyone who kept the encouragement, love and support coming for myself and my Howard throughout this entire journey. I would not have missed a minute of time with this wonderful man. He was a blessing to me and all who knew him. He will be with us always. Sharon To read more about the Champ's courageous battle with Leukemia click here.

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Bob Wall: Dear World Black Belt Members, We have lost one of the greatest Martial Artists of all time with the untimely passing of the incomparable Howard Jackson on Tuesday March 7, 2006 at 11:00AM. Howard was a dear, treasured friend to me and many martial artists worldwide and he will be often remembered and never forgotten. Howard's family along with his fiance Sharon will announce a memorial for Howard in a few days to be held in Los Angeles in approximately two weeks. God Bless Sharon, his children Howard Jr., Jeromy and Amber and his grandchildren. Love & Respect, Bob Wall

Adam James: Everyone at World Black Belt sends their condolences to the Jackson family and we have lost a great man and a great martial artist today. God bless you Howard!

Solara Key: Mr. Wall, I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Jackson. I kept hoping and praying some miracle cure could help him regain his health. I sent him a package of my "Solara Speaks" articles. I remember how my grandfather loved hearing from people over the 30 years he was an invalid. I hope he knew that we were thinking of him, even if he did not feel like reading them. We have lost so many wonderful human beings/martial artists. All of us kids into the martial arts will have some pretty big shoes to fill. Lovingly, Solara Key

Richard Tirschel: Jesus knew who he was … those are the words that come to my mind when I think of Howard Jackson. Howard may have started his life out fighting … fighting for a scrap of bread, for his right to be heard and for life itself. He grew up in a tumultuous time in a violent environment but as he lays at rest today he leaves for us the truth of what fighting is all about. I don’t mean the one on one inside the ring but the one on one inside our own hearts. Howard had heart … whatever the fight, he fought it well, and knowing him has allowed us to look past the ring and carry the fight to wherever it confronts us. Howard is the model of how to face life’s battles. Every step of progress is a step more spiritual. The great element of battle is not born of human wisdom alone but of the heart that extends beyond the crumbling away of material elements of reason, and our battles in life lead us back to it’s original language; the final unity between man and God. Howard knew who he was … And I thank him for it. Duke Tirschel

Michael Miller: My prayers are going out to Mr. Jackson's family. He was a wonderful person. He treated me like I was one of his closest friends and he barely knew me. He was one of many martial arts greats who took the time to give me some excellent quotes for the martial arts book I am writing. I didn't know at the time how meaningful his quotes would really be, until now. My book will be dedicated to Mr. Jackson, in his memory. We have lost a true legend. If there is anything I can do for anyone, don't hesitate to contact me. God bless, Mr. Jackson! Your spirit is within us! Michael Miller Miller's Kenpo Karate Dojo Bradford, PA

Drew Arthur: As a kid I followed every martial arts magazine I could. I followed Howard's martial career as he was a former US Marine, like Joe Lewis. I entered the Marines Corps becuase of my love for the martioial arts and beciuse of heros like Howard and Joe. I remember reading an article which described how Howard would travel 2 hours round trip by car to train. This was marine Corps spirt "Espirit de Corps". If it were not for role models such as Howard I would not have ended up as a US Marine, Police Officer, and Deputy US Marshal. But, again thank God for Howard. I am who i am today because of him, Joe Lewis, Joe Hess, etc. I sent Howard an e-mail a few months ago. He said that when he got better and back in Texas we would meet. This did not happen, but I am sure when i pass, one of the first faces I shall surely see is that of Howard. As a former Marine, street cop and 19 year veteran as a Federal Agent I have seen the evil in folks. I have also witnessed the absolute goodness in folks. i have pondered why do good folks get an illness which cuts there life short when there are evil serial killers, rapist, etc. who roam our planet like a prowling lion. Why do some of these folks continue to live, and good folks, good role models like Howard leave us so soon? Only God knows why things are as they are. In the time Howard was on this earth he did good. And I am glad that he is in the arms of Christ at this moment, and looking into the face of our lord, in peaceful copmfort, and feeling no pain. If there is martial arts in heaven howard will be there instructing, sharing, and smiling. Be blessed my Marine Corps brother. Yours in the Martial Way and in Christ. Drew "Thunder Wolf" Arthur

Justin Colatarci: I was saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Howard Jackson. I never had the privilege to meet and talk with him but have followed his numerous career and achievements over the years. The Martial Arts World has lost a great exponent of the arts. My condolences and prayers go out to Mr. Jackson's family, students and friends. I would like to thank World Black Belt.com and especially Sharon for keeping everyone informed as to the health of Mr.Jackson over these past months.

GEORGE PETROTTA: It is always a sad time when we lose a beloved friend to an illness. I know that Howard was closing his eyes to this world at the same time opening them to see our Lord Jesus, standing there and saying, "Welcome home my child." We wish the family of Howard Jackson all of our deepest sympathies in this time of grief. The ISA will hold a brief moment of silence in his honor on March 9, 2006 at 12:00Noon.

Glenn Hairston: I was deeply saddened upon hearing about the passing of Mr. Jackson. I did not know him personally although I felt I did after following his career for so many years. Howard Jackson will truely be missed. My deepest sympathies to the Jackson Family. Glenn Hairston

James McMurray: Master Howard Jackson has been a friend since the middle '70's. Always strong and powerful in the ring, and just as strong and powerful outside the ring in being a great man. I shall cherish is jokes, wit and the way he always had a kind word for everyone. It saddens me that there will be people that will never have the chance to meet him and be touched by his sincerity, but for those who have had the pleasure, he will live on within our hearts and hopefully in our actions towards each other. Sempre Fi!

Bob Wall: Received this from Mfundishi Tayari Casel: For The Jackson Family, World Black Belt Members and all Martial Artist: "I am fully convinced that the soul is indestructible, and that it's activities will continue through eternity. It is like the sun, which, to our eyes, seems to set in night; but it has really gone to diffuse its light elsewhere." Howard Jackson was a star whose light will continue to shine in our hearts. It is with much respect and honor to have known him. Peace and Blessings to All, Mfundishi Tayari Casel

Tommy Bottone: This is a sad day in the martial arts when we loose such a good person. I have to say that I have always known who Howard was from his great fighting career being a pioneer in the sport of kickboxing in the US. I consider myself lucky to have had the chance to meet him a few years ago and he was an inspriration as he was truly a very kind hearted person which you could never forget. God Bless his Fiance Sharon and his family. Howard was a legand and will never be forgotten. TOMMY "BEE" BOTTONE

Luis Nuno: Dear Howard: you were in my mind these days, now I understand the reason..... It is certainly shocking to learn that your pass thru this temporary stage called LIFE on EARTH has come to and end but it is also a deep moment to meditate the fact that now you are experiencing the absolute peace by having your soul in the absolute presence of God. May this new journey thru eternity bring you all those good things that you earned thru a life full of examples to us. You have demonstrated to be not only a Champion in the Martial Arts but a real warrior in life… Many lesson learned from you remain among us, the last one being: live with all heart and conscience Here-Today, never procrastinate….. I regret that I was late to write you a personal note when you were so constant in my mind and prayers these very days, I sent you the last e-mail just 8 days ago… now I realize why I did not have an answer from you, …you were preparing your mind and soul for an important meeting…. With God. Farewell my dear brother, may you enjoy the absolute eternity… Thank you for your friendship and legacy… Profesor Luis Nuno Nuno’s American Kenpo Karate Tijuana, Mexico

James Howard: My condolences to the Jackson family and friends. The martial arts world lost not only a great martial artist but also a great human being. It feels like an end of a era for me. Since as kid I grew up on great martial artists like Howard Jackson. He was a fighter until the end. Master James Howard Tiger's Lair Martial Arts Cincinnati, ohio 45245

Richard Morris: Dear Jackson family: Becky and I send our love and condolences to you. You will be in our prayers. Howard has been a beloved friend of mine for more than thirty years. I will treasure the times we spent training together, sharing our dreams and goals, praying, and a lot of laughter! When Howard came to stay with my family in Fort Worth, or when I spent time with him in Los Angeles, it was like being with a brother. I ask God to bring comfort to you in the coming days and years of grief. Let me know what I can do for your family. Love in Jesus Christ, Richard M. Morris E-mail: PastorRMMorris@aol.com

Gregory Satterfield: Gregory Satterfield: I will miss Howard deeply. I met Howard many years ago when he was a bouncer at a Redondo Beach club I used to attend. I didn't see him for many years after that but we met up again while he was working as a loss prevention officer for J.C. Pennys and I was a Torrance Police Officer. Howard was the type of person that was so easy to get along with and talk to. You could have known Howard for 15 minutes and you felt like you've known this man your entire life. It was an honor to have known Howard as well as having the opportunity to meet Sharron, his son's and his sister. Howard was a fighter, and he fought his illness all the way until the end. I just saw Howard a week ago Sunday and though he looked thin, he was still smiling and sporting his large moustache. Robert Temple and I prayed with Howard that afternoon. I am greatful that Howard had accepted God as his savior as I know that I will someday see Howard again in the glory of heaven. May God be with him and his family. Rest in peace now my brother. In Loving Memory Greg

vincent palumbo: To my fellow martial artists, I met Mr Jackson at Mark Parra's House of Champions in Los Angeles a few years ago while I was in the U.S. on holidays. He was a gentleman in every sense of the word, and he spoke to me about his illustrious fight career, and he was keen to know a bit more about Australia! The martial arts world has lost a true legend and an absolute gentleman too, lets never forget it either! My condolances to the Jackson family and friends. May Mr Howard Jackson rest in peace with our Lord up in the beautiful heavens, until we all meet again some day! Master Vince Palumbo Australia Cacoy Doce Pares Eskrima World Federation.

Ventura Silva: Ventura Silva & Black Belts. Our hearts are SAD, Because we lost our brother and our BIG role model in life, We give thank you to GOD for let us learn from you, becasue you always was a fighter in all kind of adversitys of the life, My black belts will never forget the last seminar we have with you last year, Was a great honor to have you in our school and give us a little piece of your BIG aknowledge, The All Martial Arts are sufering the sadness but OUR world champion are living in our hearts forever and we will never forget wath do you teach us, to be a fighter always, and fight all the time for wath ever you want,,,, "FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS WE LOVE YOU HOWARD" AND GOD BLESS YOU FAMILY SHARON, HOWARD JR, JEROMY AND AMBER,, WE ALWAYS HAVE YOU IN OUR HEARTS AND OUR MIND, Master Ventura Silva International Tang-Do-Kwan Karate Association Tijuana Baja California, venturasilva@worldblackbelt.com

Brian Hurry: Howard, You were a roll model to many. You will be remembered always with deep respect and admiration. Bravo Chuck & Gena for a very touching tribute to Howard at the World Combat League in Las Vevas. Rest in peace Howard, your home! Regards, Brian Hurry Las Vegas, NV.

Breck Mills: My sincere condolences to the Jackson family and to Sharon. Although I did not spend much time with Howard, I was fortunate enough to exchange many e-mails with him over the past few years. Sharon, thank you also for being so strong and supportive. Howard was truely a legend and his legacy will live on with all of us. We will surely miss this great man who has touched so many lives. I know that he will continue to watch over us. Breck Mills World Acadian Karate Federation Cajun Martial Arts Moscow, Russia

Stephen Hayes: Stephen K. Hayes: We held a memorial meditation for martial friend Howard in our temple dojo tonight, and continue to behold his spirit advancing in bright light. Our deepest condolences go out to Howard’s family and dearest ones. GYA-TE, GYA-TE, HA-RA-GYA-TE, HA-RA-SO-GYA-TE, BO-JI SO-WA-KA “On, on beyond, completely on beyond, on beyond to the other side, to the enlightened peace that transcends all understanding. So goes the journey of life.” Howard, We loved you for making life a more meaningful place for all of us. You have blessed our days, and inspired our martial training. Noble mentor, warm friend, your courage and caring lives on in our hearts.

Joe Corley: To Sharon and all of Howard's Family: I was happy to have had the chance to visit with Howard 2 weeks ago. His fighter's spirit had not diminished an ounce, but even more evident was his continuing grace. How fortunate he was to have had someone with Sharon's strength and to have received back the love and prayers from so many who loved him. All of us who had the pleasure of knowing Howard Jackson were certainly privileged. He has always been a gentle-man. His indomitable spirit in the ring, his pure grace under pressure and his unselfish sharing endeared him to so many of us. His spirit will live on, at the Battle of Atlanta, in the PKA and in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Art Camacho: Howard was a champion in every sense of the word. He was not only a great martial artist but a true friend who, along with the other greats of his time propelled the martial arts in the United states. He left behind a legacy of greatness, kindness and humility. God Bless you Howard. Art Camacho

David Krapes: On Saturday the 25th of February Lillian Wall, Bob Wall and myself spent the morning with Howard Jackson and his loving and most caring lady Sharon. Though we had been by to see Howard on so many other occasions, it was on this particular day that I realized that God had just shared a very special moment with me and I wanted to share this most memorable moment with you all. I remember standing there in the waiting area, dressing up to see Howard and noticing just how peaceful Howard looked to me before Sharon woke him up. He started off a little slow and groggy, but like Howard has always done before, he jumped up and was ready and anxious to greet us. All I can tell you is that on that day, Bob Wall was on. You couldn’t have picked a better time for Bob to tell his jokes. Between Lillian, Sharon, Howard and myself he couldn’t have picked a better audience. Bob went right down the line and had his way with each and every one of us and Howard laughed and laughed. It was exhilarating just to be there and see how much love was in the room that day. I just wanted to say to thank you Mr. Wall for being extra great that day. I’m grateful that you made Howard smile and laugh so much. Howard, my friend, had the most beautiful smile that just stretched out across his face as he laughed and laughed. I mean it Bob, God Bless you for that. Sharon, there aren’t enough words in the world to express just how much all of us love you for being so brave and courageous, standing by Howard and loving him the way that you did. You are truly my hero. Thank you for sharing him and letting me get to know such a great man. I want his loving family to know that Howard was loved by so many people from all over the world and I thank you so much for letting us all be part of his life. Most of all I will never forget just how much God loves him, because I know God blessed him with a beautiful smile and the most beautiful heart to go along with it. I’m gonna miss you my Brother, David Krapes

Charles Sheffield: Dear Howard, We're all going to miss you…..your winning ways as a great martial artist and even more so, your winning ways as a truly fine individual…..your smile of greeting whenever we saw you…..the non-assuming innocence in your straight forward manner…..the enthusiastic way in which you embraced life that radiated from that broad smile of yours and overwhelmed us all with a great and loving feeling about you, ourselves, and life in general. Although, I’m deeply saddened for your children, grandchildren, Sharon, and your friends, including me, by your passing from our lives, I’m joyful that I had the opportunity to know you and I shall always value the lessons you taught me of life and humanity. You’re a great being, Howard…..the world is a better place for your having been here..…and I have no doubt that you are off to bigger and better things. With Great Love & Respect, Charles Sheffield

Jeffrey Allen: I never met Howard. I have never heard a bad word about him. Our whole federation is praying for the family in their time of need. The important thing is, he fought until the very end. It is a great lesson to us all to never lose hope and to keep the faith. Grandmaster Chang, Young-Shil sends his regards from South Korea: "Sorry to hear of our loss in the martial arts. I am sure he was a great man to have so many dear friends who will miss him greatly." God Bless! In Christ, Jeff Allen International Hapkido Federation

Richard Tirschel: (JOANNA LIVES IN POLAND AND HASN'T ACCESS TO HER COMPUTER/SHE ASKED ME TO CONVEY HER SENTIMENTS) "Howard was like a brother to me and he has known me better than anyone else. He helped me out in many difficult situations. He supported me spiritually. Some people say, I'm only a fan, but they're wrong - he was my friend." JOANNA dragon tiger

Jose Luis Hinojosa: It is terribly sad to hear of Howard Jackson's passing. Howard and I met a few years ago during my friend Eric Lee's celebrity roast, in Los Angeles. Howard sat to my left and we talked and carried on as if we'd known each other for a long time. He was in good spirits and was very easy-going. I was especially impressed with all the positive energy he radiated not only to me, but to everyone present. Howard, keep on radiating and illuminating the sky and all the angels. Your friend, Jay-el PS -- Say hi to my mom. You'll know who she is.

Charles Platten: Chuck Platten Director/WBB.Canada. Ancient and agless,mythical symbol of absolute power,majesty of blazing strength and aged wisdom,harnessed in perfect balance. Fearless and decisive,it moves with bold confident steps. Its image stirs the imagination and leaves us humble and in awe,until we eccept the wisdom thet it dwells within each of us. It is the part of human spirit that never falters and never fails. This is how a DRAGON is discribed. No one fit that part better then our beloved friend Howard Jackson, The world has lost one of it's rare DRAGON'S,but his love and majesty will live in our hearts forever: My sincere condolences to Sharon and Howard's family. Peace and Love be with you: chuck Platten

Mark Grove: I never had the opportunity to meet Mr. Jackson. I read about him and respected the man very much. I offer my sincere condolences and prayers to the friends and most of all the family. I would like to thank World Black Belt and Sharon for keeping us all aware of Howard’s conditions. I feel god has a plan for all of us. The more we speak about and share memories of him, the more those memories stay alive in all of us, as well as continuing to share with the youth of the sport the memories and sacrifices that were made so we all can continue to grow and his legacy can continue. God Bless the Jackson family. Respectfully, Mark Grove

Cynthia Rothrock: Cynthia Rothrock I would like to extend my condolences to all of Howard’s family. I never got to see Howard fight but I heard lots of stories of his great fighting spirit. My good friend Steve Fisher would keep me updated on Howard’s health. This amazing man kept his true fighting spirit up until the end. He is a true inspiration and hero to all of us.

Fumio Demura: Rest in Peace my friend... Howard jackson and I worked together many times in Demonstrations and Films. I learned what a great martial aritst he was, what a great teacher, and what a great human being. An example for all to follow. Deepest condolences from everyone at Genbu-Kai to Howards family, friends and students. He will be missed... Fumio Demura

GARY LEE: DEAR SHARON ,HOWARD JR.,JEROMY AND AMBER, Howard was a kind warrior, a role model for adults and children , my son love him from the beginning.I loved his smile ,if you caught him in a joke or told a war story of the past ,he would light up with that smile. In the early years he still had that smile but he was a fierce fighter. heck , he hung out with Monster Man Everett Eddy , Johnny Lee, and Rob Hogon, thats how i met him in the early seventies at the FOUR SEASONS INVITATIONAL in Cleveland ,Ohio Howard Jackson was a Legends Legend and he was a great friend and mentor. The e-mails and phone calls were very special and I love most of all the great stories we used to talk about ,the glorious days of point karate. I believe in my heart you were one of the best fighters ever to put on a gi and the sweetness you gave us while you were here will stay with garett and i forever , you touch my son's life with your gift of teaching and love for children. I will never forget you working with him in the Hotel hall way explaing the low punch close the gap one two -nail him !!! Sharon, thanks for all the commnication , the love you showed all of us. The martial arts community has loss one of it' greatest champions, a real world champion. Howard Jackson one of the greatest fighters who ever lived!! I will miss you little brother, Gary and Garett Lee

Marc Lambert: Howard, I can't thank you enough. You were a great friend, boss and teacher. You have left a void and you will never be forgotten. I will always cherish your kindness. God Bless. Marc Lambert

Bob Wall: Received this from Tachi Vince Cecere: To the family and students of Howard Jackson. We at Atemi-Ryu Ju-Jitsu and Sanuces Ryu Ju-Jitsu wish to extend our sincere condolences. Mr. Jackson was not only a warrior and great martial artist. He was a great spirit, light and friend. and will be greatly missed by many. We hope that Howard's family members grief is cut short knowing that so many people truly cared and loved this wonderful man. God Bless Tachi Vince Cecere and our whole Ju-Jitsu family

Ron Sarchian: I'm so sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Howard Jackson. He was a kind and gentle man with a character and strength that we don't get to see very often. Mr. Jackson was kind enough to be a witness for my successful Guinness Book World Record attempt back on June 16th, 2004. He was incredibly supportive, even at 4:00 am, and I will never forget his generosity and kindness even though, at that time, I was a total stranger to him. My condolonces to Sharon and the rest of Howard's family. He was a GREAT CHAMPION, a GREAT MAN and an even better HUMAN BEING. We will miss you Howard... Peace... With Deepest Regards, Ron Sarchian

THOMAS ANGLIN: With deep sadness I was very sorry to here of Mr. Jackson's passing, I just wanted to say that I have met this gentleman in the year of 1988 when Mr. Norris was on tour and he came to Cleveland, Ohio, I want to say it was certainaly a pleasure meeting him, he was such a warm and caring person.Thank you for letting me express my feelings. Sincerly, the best to his family! Yours Truly, Tom Anglin

Steven Levi: I extend my condolences to the Jackson family. I can think of no one more braver in their fight against cancer. The few times that I met Howard, left me with the impression of a man that was not just a legend in his own time, but would set an example to us all in how to face with bravery and humor, this terrible disease. Sincerely, Steven Levi

STEVE UHRIG: It is with sadness that we have lost a true legend in the Martial Arts. Howard was one of the nicest people you could ever meet. I first met Howard as part of the PKA many years ago and he loved to stop by our dojo with Jeff Smith (who was my first instructor) when he was in town. Howard was a true champion in the PKA. Love and respects to Howard, his fiance, children and grandchildren. Steve Uhrig Worldblackbelt/CUPM-California University of Protection Management Admissions Consultant Career Counselor

Bob Wall: Received from Don and Shirley Bendell: DEAR BOB; WE DIDN'T KNOW HOWARD JACKSON BUT KNOW HE WAS ONE OF YOUR CLOSEST FRIENDS AND WAS A TRUE MARTIAL ARTIST. OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHIES TO YOU AND TO HIS FAMILY. BLESSINGS, DON & SHIRLEY

Bob Wall: Received this from Kinnie Gibson: The last time I spoke with Howard was about two months ago and we had a great conversation, he was focused and was comfortable with whatever God had planned for him, but very much in a mind set of it's not over until the count gets to 10. The comforting thing is in faith we know it’s only a matter of time until we get to see him again. "singing, joking, dancing, and that big smile". Kinnie

Shane Lagana: To the Jackson Family: We had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Jackson at the Living Legands which was a celebrity roast for Jerry Piddington. We were honored to see him again the Godstock Event in which he passed on advise to my son who is a member of Sidekick Karate in China Grove. I will always be greatful for the time that we were given to meet this gentleman and have the memories and advise that he passed on. He will always have a place in our hearts. Dawn, Tom, Shane Lagana Salisbury, NC

Bernie Krasnoo: Howard Jackson a great Kickboxing Champion, Great Martial Artest, a great teacher and one of the finest human beings we have ever known. He will be missed by all of us. Especially by my family, Jamie, Mouse, The Sherman Oaks Karate Team members. He will always be remembered with great reverence by all of us. It is a shame that the good die young. We will always have him in our hearts and mind. Personaly I will always remember the kindness and advice he gave me. We offer our condolences to Jackson family at this difficult time. Bernie "Pop's" Krasnoo Sherman Oaks Karate Jamie Krasnoo Sherman Oaks Karate Michele "Mouse" Krasnoo Sherman Oaks Karate Alvin Prouder A.K.A. "The Million Dollar Baby" Sherman Oaks Raiders

KC Jones: Howard Jackson a great friend, an inspiration and a brother too so many. He will be greatly missed by all. Howard was not just a champion in the ring, he was a champion and ambassador of love and friendship too a rainbow of people around the world and not just in the Marital Arts community. Howard Jackson was Mr. Charisma, there was never a time he would not bring light and excitement into a room or where ever he was present. He would always offer you a huge smile, handshake or a hug and with a tremendous amount of energy and love. He would share this with anyone and everyone that was in his presents. The last time I was able to visit with Howard; Bob Wall, Lillian Wall, Sharon, Dave Krapes and Howard’s sister were present. Howard had just finished a session of therapy, which I understood was extremely draining. For those of you who know Bob Wall, he always seems to have a few jokes up his sleeve. Well Howard in true champion type form perked right up, sat up in bed, laughed, and joined right in with the jokes and story telling. True to Howard Jackson form, he brought a positive spirit and energy to the room and shared it with each of us. How our hearts do ache at the thought that we have lost a Father, Brother, Grandfather, Fiancé, a true Friend and a great Champion in Howard. It is sad that we think of our loss, but not of God’s gain. In prayer this morning the Lord spoke to my spirit … and I realized how very blessed we were that we had the pleasure of knowing Howard Jackson. He will be missed on this plan, however his spirit will be with us forever! Go with God, may peace be with you, Howard. See you again, K C

Ricky Smith: SideKick Karate - China Grove, NC Ricky, Randy, & Edie The Californian Flash was a true leader, legend, and inspiration. He was a better friend than time... More humble than the length of a day... His smile and charm as smooth as wine. Howard closed the gap in his final fight... Victorious we know and perfectly healed in God's sight. He knocked on Heaven's door... God answered...come in Howard, my warrior, my son... You are home, rest now...your job was very well done.

Ivan Mendez: Ivan Mendez My heartfelt sorrow goes out to Howard's fiance, Sharon and his family. I grew up watching Howard's kick boxing & martial arts career, as he was one of my favorite martial artist. It wasn't until 25 years later were I met Howard. Three years prior to his passing, we managed to train together, exchange philosophies, and most importantly a friendship was developed that ultimately will last a lifetime. The most important lesson Howard taught me was the power of attitude. That our lives are not determined by what happens to us, but how we react to what happens, and by the attitude we bring to life. Howard always had a great attitude, even until his final days. He will forever be a martial arts legend, a warrior, an icon, but most importantly, my hero & close personal friend. Until we meet again! Ivan Mendez Red Dragon Karate Trenton, New Jersey

Joe Onesto: Bob. We've talked. You and I know. To Howard's family; GOD blessed us knowing him. Joe

Sue Foanio: The Rose Beyond the Wall A rose once grew where all could see Sheltered beside a garden wall And, as the days past swiftly by It spread its branches, straight and tall One day, a beam of light shone through A crevice that had opened wide The rose bent gently toward its warmth Then passed beyond to the other side Now, you who deeply feel its loss Be comforted, the rose blooms there It’s beauty even greater now Nurtured by God’s own loving care. Author unknown My thoughts and prayers are with Howard's Family and Friends, God Bless. Sue Foanio

Bob Wall: Received this from Roger Rosegrant Dear Howard, I reached for the phone today to call you, but the I remembered, you got out of the hospital. I also thought about how great it was to get those calls from you, never knowing what state or country you were calling from. Or were you just around the corner. I’m sure this won’t be the last time this happens to me, and how many times will it happen to all the others that loved you so much. You lost a Great Fight, but you sure as hell won all our hearts. It hurts to lose such a great friend as you. Your brother, Roger Rosgrant

Danny Lane: Howard, Semper-Fi Marine. I am a far better man having known you. Thank you for being my friend. The times we had I will cherish forever. I as well as everyone that knows you and loved you could write a million things about you and that still wouldn't cover all the positive things you brought to people's lives. I will see you again someday soon. I'll bring the rum and cokes. I love you man. God Bless, Danny Lane

Bob Thurman: Howard Jackson was a great Kickboxing Champion, Great Martial Artest, a great teacher and one of the finest human beings we have ever known. He will be missed by family, friends and all people involved in the martial arts. I had the honor to get to know him and feel blessed by that opportunity,