Brendan Paul Williams joined our Helensville dojo in 2001.
We knew him as Paul.
Paul soon developed a passion for karate and kobudo and travelled regularly from Glen Eden in West Auckland to attend classes. He was graded to shodan in 2004. This achievement inspired in Paul a determination to visit and train in Okinawa, the birth place of karate. In August 2005 Paul fulfilled this dream when, with a group from this club, he travelled to Okinawa.
Towards the end of this visit Paul's health had become a concern. Soon after arriving back in Auckland Paul was diagnosed with cancer.
After a short illness Paul died on 25th October 2005 aged 34.
He is greatly missed by all of us who knew him. Our thoughts and love are with his family, especially his young son Brett.
Kia kaha Brett.
We have created the 'Paul Williams Memorial Trophy' to honour Paul and his commitment to karatedo.
It is awarded annually in October to the student within our New Zealand Organisation who we feel best displays the attributes exemplified by Paul.