Shihan Robert Halliburton (1944-2008)

Most teachers will try to add to their students vocabularies. Sensei removed a word from mine: "can't"

Memorable quote from Sensei when he asked me to participate in a dojo demonstration some years back. My response was, "Can I think about it?" His reply: "Think about it all you want, just be here by 5:30." I love him.

I've been sitting here for five minutes trying to figure out how to put into words what Sensei Halliburton meant to me and how much effect he had my life.

But there are no such words.

I recall one time Robert was teaching an advanced self-defense class. He was demonstrating on a student volunteer and said the technique began by grasping the attacker's belt.

Someone asked "What if he isn't wearing a belt?"

Robert replied that you should grab the waistband of his pants if he has no belt.

Of course, at this point a student asked "What if he isn't wearing any pants?"

Without missing a beat Robert answered "Then get a hold of his underwear."

He then paused, awaiting the inevitable next question.

"What if he isn't wearing any underwear?" was asked from the back of the room.

Robert's expression turned deadly serious as he replied "Then you KNOW what you have to do."

I remember the first time I called Way of Japan 25yrs. ago. It was on Cedar Ave. I talked to Shihan.He invited me to come on in. He met me at the door,And called me by first name. We had never met . I guess he recognized my voice. But at that moment he made proud to be part of The Way of Japan family. I will truly miss him. He was a great teacher and motivator.

I have so many favorite memories of Robert that it's hard to pick the one that stands out the most to me. Was it when I dropped into the Cedar St dojo, not having seen Sensei for nearly 6 years, and he greeted me by name? Was it the conditioning seminar in '90 when Robert, with his droll Texan humor, cracked a joke while calling cadence, and he noted that I was the only one who got it?

Robert inspired me more than any other person I've ever known. The world is a little colder without him in it.

OSS! Shihan!

I met Shihan in the early 90's and I must admit he had a very powerful ZEN. Quite frankly I realized right away he not only was a Master of his Art but also a Genius with a beautiful Spirit. I loved Shihan and I will miss him tremendously.

I have never met a man that meant so much to so many people, he will always have a place in my heart. I will miss him.

Oss. When I think of Halliburton Shihan I think of compassion, respect, integrity and admiration. The spirit of Way of Japan, and the non-judgmental manner Shihan possessed, made me feel welcome upon "each" one of my returns. Although I was not always present in class, I was always thinking of Shihan and the dojo and how he impacted the life of me and my brothers'. Unfortunately, I came to take for granted that he would always be there. It is difficult knowing he is not physically present in our lives, but comforting to know that his greater spirit will live on. Shihan, you captured my heart, and lifted my spirits. You will be greatly missed. Oss.

Before I came to Way of Japan, I did not work at things that did not come easily to me. Put frankly, if something was difficult, I usually quit. Shihan taught me that failure is an option. It is what happens when you give up. One evening, when I was having difficulties with a technique, Shihan reminded me of one of Funakoshi's precepts, "Do not think that you have to win. Think rather that you do not have to lose."

Although my karate is not the best, I have not lost. I have not quit. I have not failed. Thank you, Shihan, for having faith in me and pulling me back into training when I faltered. Thank you for teaching me that, sometimes, my most difficult opponed is myself, and thank you for teaching me that I can overcome that opponent; in karate and in life.

Oss!

I first walked into way of japan in 1973. i KNEW this was the place for me. I felt welcome, wanted, at home. Sensi knew my name even before i remember giving it to him. I was not just a check. I was a person, special to him. what he gave me over the years simply can't be put into words. It goes far far deeper than that. His spirit will forever be connected with mine. DAD I LOVE YOU SOOOOOO MUCH. I will always be hear for you I shall remember what you told me to do. OSS!

I loved the way Shihan treated everyone equally. He took no pity on the girls just because we were "girls." While training one evening, I got punched in the nose. Of course, I cried like a baby. Shihan said, "Come here, let me look." He checked my nose and said, "It's not broken. Next time block, now go finish!" Perserverance is one of the many lessons he taught me. He was great! I loved him and will miss him from the bottom of my heart.

My training started at the Cedar Dojo in the mid 80's. I enjoyed the first day and thought I might stick around for a year. Before that year was up I knew I would not be leaving any time soon. I loved training and being at the Dojo. Over the next few years Sensei taught me to have a passion for the art of Karate. During that time I also came to have a great love and respect for him. Sensei is the greatest man I have ever known in my life. He gave me a place to call home.

Eighteen years later I stopped training because of work and school, but my heart is still at the Dojo with Sensei. He is the most wonderful man I have ever known. I loved him with all my heart and soul and always will. LOVE YOU SENSEI. OSS

How do you say goodbye to a person who is responsible for so much of what you've become? There is too much.
When I came to Way of Japan in 1980, I was a confused 11 year old kid. I grew up in the dojo, through middle school, high school, college and beyond, with Sensei there every day. From the first day, I felt like he could see through me, read my heart. I felt that he knew when I needed a confidence boost or a pat on the back. He also knew when I needed to be humbled or a kick in the pants or just some advice or a lesson about life.
Sensei taught me so much about being a good person and becoming a man. Teaching me Karate was such a small part of it. There is some of Sensei Halliburton in everything that I do. I feel it every day! Even the way that I intereact with my children, and my students comes from Sensei.
To be in his presence was the rarest kind of opportunity in life, and that is to be in the presence of greatness. I can't believe that he is gone. I love him, and thank him and I will miss him with all of my heart.

OSS SENSI.

I REMEMBER THE FIRST TIME I PUT MY CHILDREN IN YOUR CLASS, BACK IN THE 70'S, AND I'M SO GLAD I DID.
BECAUSE OF YOU THEY TURN OUT GREAT. MY CHILDREN ARE DEVISTATED OF THEIR LOSS AND SO AM I.
(BRYAN-AURORA- DEAN (bones) AND ME !ba

Sensei Halliburton,

I was shocked and saddened when I heard Sensei passed on. Sensei taught me a word that carried me through Ranger training and beyond. Tamashi!! I will miss Sensei.

wow. since the first day i walked into way of japan , when i just turned 5 years old, i loved karate, im the only girl at school who can kick a guys butt,and i owe it all to shihan,he taught me so much, now i almost regret not coming to karate these past months. he ment so much to all of us, he taught me to walk out the pain, or suck it up, even when i wanted to scream at the person, he taught us life lessons that we should always keep, we are all sad that he passed, its like we lost a part of us.

In 1980, I signed up to learn karate from Sensei. A few years later, I left to do other things without saying a word to Sensei. Nearly twenty years had passed when I returned to sign my children up to study under Sensei. When I walked in the door, he remembered me by name. The sensei of the father had become the sensei of the father's children.

When I realized my son was about to become a Shodan-Sho and my daughter was nearly a brown belt, I decided this old man had better keep up with his children if he was ever going to have a chance! In late 2006, I returned to continue my study with Shihan. He treated me as though I had never left.

I recently had a conversation with Shihan about the impact he had on the life of my family and I and thanked him. He simply responded by saying that he was grateful for the impact his students had on HIS life. The honor was ours!

Oss, Shihan.

I trained for a short time at the Way of Japan and was in the beginners class taught by Shihan Halliburton. I respected Shihan's teaching. He was very patient with his students. He was quick to praise, slow to criticize. You will be dearly missed, Shihan Halliburton, by all of us who had the opportunity to know you, however briefly.

Sensei.
One of the most profound influences on my life.
A true warrior - not like those that pop culture honors today.
A man of heart and character - a straight shooter.
In a world where women are scarred by the disapproval of their dads, he was man enough to dote on his girls and never had a harsh word for them.
While others always wanted their students in their shadows, his goal was for us to surpass him.
He will be missed as long as we are around to miss him.
He left this world as a wounded warrior - his last desires to patch up relationships, to continue the dojo, and to care for his princesses.
I'll see him in glory with the One who paid our way and has already healed his hurts, beside a crystal sea.

You inspired us to be better people! We will remember you for your devotion to the sport and your students. You taught us discipline, strength, restraint, relevance of mind, spirit and heart.

Parents were assured that under your guidance our children would be made stronger people, with principles.

Thank you for the honor of mentorship and friendship Shihon Haliburton

Sensei,
I write this to you with great sadness in my heart. I think you know how much you have meant to me, I have known you all of my life from the time a could walk to are last conversation. You have been there for my family for 3 generations and to know that you are no longer here is a pain I find hard to deal with. No man has had a bigger impact on who I am today then you. I love you and will miss you as a son misses his father, oss.

Even in his passing I have continued to learn from Sensei. I will take this loss in my life as a very painful reminder to tell my loved ones how much I love them.

Sensai has an absolutely profound impact in my life.

OSS Sensei

Sensei,
I feel like I have lost a parent. In 1979, I was 8yrs old when I met you and we were together into my mid-20s. I always viewed you as a father, a role model, a teacher, and a protector. You were always there for me regardless of the topic that I needed advice about. I always felt safe with you and was extremely proud to have you as my Sensei. You shaped who I am mor than any other influence in my life, and a part of you will always live through me because of what you gave to me. I don't think a day has gone by in the past 10yrs that we were apart that I haven't thought of you. You are a very large part of my life and always will be.
I have a 3yr old son, and I am deeply saddened that he will not be able to have the experience that I had being raised by you. I just always thought you would be there to give him your influence and teachings. While he will not get to meet you in person, he will most certainly know you through me.
Thank you for all you have done. I will miss you forever.
OOS

One of the first things I noticed when I started Karate was the deep respect and admiration shown by the instructors and students toward Shihan.
He had the ability to motivate and relate to people of all ages. I remember attending his Birthday party where he took the time to individually acknowledge everyone in attendance with words of encouragement and humor.
He was a special person and will be greatly missed.

Shihan is the most powerful and kindest man I have ever had the privilage of knowing. There are no words to express how he influenced my life and/or how much he will be missed.

Shihan with all my faults you never showed frustration or disappointment in me, your teaching was an inspiration to all. It mean't alot to me. You are more then my teacher you are my hero.
Ramona Chavira

Sensei, aka my father/daughter dance partner.....what wonderful memories so way back when....and until now what an amazing impact you had on my husband and boys. You will be missed more than you could ever know, your students and family are broken without you. You were an inspiration to so many people and never forgot a name!

I can’t find the words to properly express what I’m feeling. I was 9 years old when I first started training with you. Being like a father we had our ups and downs but no matter what I loved you and honored you. Sitting with you at the 500 club once you called me son. A moment I will always cherish. I have never in my like ever called you anything but Sensei and will never have another Sensei. God Bless you Sensei we will meet again. Oss. I will be there for you family as I promised. Your faithful student.

I remember the first time meeting sensei at the mall on Blackstone during a demo Way of Japan was doing. One of the higher belts while judging his distance for a spinning heel kick to break a board barley touched it and the board broke.. The whole audience watching kind of laughed at how these must be fake boards.. Without even stopping the person doing the kicked commented see what concentration can do.. Sensei stopped the whole crowd with just one stare.. But then laughed right alone with everyone.. I joined the Way of Japan family the next day…. This always stuck with me over the many years how Sensei could change what was going on or about to happen by just a look from him…

My most sincere thought goes out to Sensei daughters and the entire Way of Japan family..

Karl Redmon

Sensei was my mentor and closest friend. I started Karate in 1971 and even after moving away, I returned regularly to train, through 2007. I’ll always remember singing Spanish songs together and watching Sensei play with my small son years ago. He taught me discipline and respect and I have never met another instructor, or man, like him.

Sensei Halliburton, my dear teacher, mentor, and friend, I owe you an eternity of gratitude. I will miss your smile, your fatherly hug, your firm handshake, and, most of all, your friendship. Your untimely passing leaves me with immense emptiness, a bottomless void, and a heavy, laden heart that can not be filled or assuaged by any other person or time.

I have met, published, studied, and worked with academic, economic, political, and social elites in the United States and Canada and alone high above these accomplished men and women with law degrees and doctorates and impressive credentials stands a tall lanky Texan: Sensei Robert Halliburton.

In every academic degree that I have obtained, in every executive position that I have held, and in every article that I have published in academic journals, an immaculate, pristine watermark and silhouette of Sensei Halliburton is embedded and juxtaposed forever. For without Sensei Halliburton, my teacher, mentor, and friend, I would not have obtained my successes both small and great.

Sensei Halliburton’s legacy will continue to live and be intertwined, embroidered, and embodied in every small and great achievement that I obtain during the remainder of my life. For you see, Sensei Halliburton taught me how to endure with relentless steadfastness, how to overcome insurmountable odds with sublime perseverance, how to lose with majestic dignity, and how to win with profound humility. These are the lessons that I learned from Sensei Halliburton, my teacher and friend, and what makes Sensei Halliburton stand alone high above the academic, economic, political, and social elites that I have met. These are the lessons that were instilled and imparted on me by a truly great and irreplaceable man: Sensei Robert Halliburton. Father. Teacher. Mentor. Friend. Icon.

Salomon Alcocer Guajardo. Ph.D.

Why?!Did you leave us Shihan.Only God and you know that answer.My heart aches so my spiritual father.But I find some peace in knowing thar you are leading "The Way', And one day I will join you in the heavens and you will greet me with an oss! We love You.

I feel privledged to spend time with you before you left. You've been in my life since I was 8 years old--35+ years. I grew up at the Belmont Dojo. I was there when Greg Dow lived in basement, when some idiot broke in and stole trophies- we camped out waiting for their return. I remember Kuriyamas memorial training- gi tops inside-out.Dont forget the ghosts that was in that house. I'll never forget what you told me " You can never sew button holes on a pancake". Your spirit lives in Alaska with me and Gary Richardson. I cannot find the words to tell how my heart feels. You was always there to listen, talk with and esspecially when i needed it-to kick my ass. Thank you my friend, my brother and my father. I LOVE YOU.

I would like to take this opportunity to say I am truly saddened of the news of Shihan Robert Halliburton. As a child he took me from being a smart mouth kid, to teaching me about respect, hard work and responsibility to myself and others. I was in and out of the dojo for approx. 10 years and never achieved higher than green belt, but when I would return, he would always welcome me back with his smile and the nickname, peckerwood because of my last name.

As I read the obituary I can only think back to when I was a child and the joy I had looking forward to going to class. He taught me many things about life as I grew up and one of the most important was to believe in myself and that I could accomplish anything. I remember when he would have his over night sessions with the kids and dreading the fact of 1,000 punches, kicks, strikes and blocks. We would stay up and watch his movie reels and watch in awe how “awesome” he was to us.

I remember going to tournaments and sitting with all the other competitors, waiting for our turn to compete. I would watch and wait and be nervous as all could be. Sensei would watch us the best that he could and when he would find us with his stare, you could see the smirk of a smile come out and feel a little better. I can remember watching “Boom, Boom” fight and us kids being loud, cheering him on and Sensei would just turn and look and smile.

Sensei, aside from my father, was truly a hero and a mentor in my eyes. Although I was not around him in his last years, he will always be in my heart for the rest of my life. I can still hear his voice in my mind and hear his laughter in my heart.

I will allways be greatful for what I learned from him. Our brief talks about spirit, energy, and focus. He had a simple way of expressing subtleties. He never completly answered my questions, insted, he guided were my answers came from, within me. Thank you Sensei. OOS!

Sensei Halliburton, such a special and unique person. You gave so much to each and everyone of us. I am thankful that me and my son's, Christopher and Michael, were able to train under you. You will truly be missed forever and never forgotten. Your spirit will live on through all of us. Thank you for everything you've taught us Sensei. We will always love you.
Chris Renna & son's

I just want to offer my condolences to Sensei Halliburton's family, friends and students. I was a student of his for almost eight years, back in the late eighties, and my time spend at Way of Japan truly changed my life. His passing is a great loss for everyone who knew him. I've been trying to find the time and finances to return to Karate, and I'm saddened that I will never have the opportunity to let him know how training changed my life.

He will live long in the hearts of us that knew him.

It is with great sadness that I send my deepest condolences to Sensei Haliburton's children, family, friends and students. His loss, I'm sure, is felt by many, many, people that he touched during his long journey through martial arts. It is an overwhelmingly sad feeling to lose another leader in the martial arts world. A legacy was started by a young man who sought to share his gift of the art with others, and succeeded.
May his voice live on in all of his students, and may those emerge with courage enough to pass this gift on to others, as it was passed unto you.
And may his family be embraced with love and compassion, and the comfort, that comes in time, of the many wonderful memories.

With our deepest sympathy,
the students and instructors at
Stuart Quan's Karate.

Thank you, Sensei, for all you gave me. I have kept your teachings in my heart for the last 39 years. My prayers go out to your family and all those whose lives you touched.

Sensei Halliburton,

You have touched my whole family. Alan started with you in the early 70's in one of your first dojos when he was only 20. Then Alan and I got married and you were his best man. Next I started studying with you and enjoyed it so much. We slowly started having our Children and you touched each one of them. First there was Shaun, then Ashley who you started calling Ashtray, the boys still call her that today, and last was Andrew. Thank you so much Sensei for all you have done for my family. With much respect and love you will be missed. Alan, Judy, Shaun, Ashley and Andrew Zendner.

I will never forget what you told me about playing with the sickles that was on the wall. I remember every time I look at the scar on my left wrist. I was so honored when you gave me my first pair of Sais, i competed with those all over the country including Alaska. Thank you for being a important part of my life. I remember one time Josesph Batista was training with us and you demonstrated FOCUS, after the demo he understood and was bruised for a week. Thank you for letting me hold Allison right after she was born. Thank you for 2 wonderful girls, you should be proud.

Where can I begin? I met "Da" a few years back through his daughter Ally, who I met through my cousin Lori. We all would hang out and have nothing but the best of times. We would laugh and joke, and trust me there was never a dull moment when he was around. He took to us girls as though we were his own and would protect us just the same. Don't look at us wrong or mumble something under your breath as we walked by or else you'd find this man right up in your space and he would make sure it was the last time he had to say something.
He had the respect of everyone who crossed his path and many looked up to him for guidance and support, as I did many times. He had an answer for everything and it always made sense. I always felt so much better after talking to him and getting that bear hug he gave at the end of every conversation.
He loved to have a good time. Whether it was at home or out and about on the town, you knew you'd have fun wherever you were with him.
My favorite memory of him was one Halloween when we decided to go hang out at the Halliburton house. When we pulled up I couldn't believe the decorations! He truly went above and beyond any kids expectations of a spooky house! Cobwebs were everywhere with spiders included, things glowing all over the place, a fog machine with so much fog it was hard to breath at times.......but the best was the music coming from his bedroom window. Even I kept getting spooked and I knew it was there! Inside was even better. Food everywhere and candy galore to hand out to the kids! There was never one little detail left out when he was in charge of something!
But most important was the love you felt when you walked into their home. It didn't matter who you were, you were made to feel like you were part of the family and that you belonged there. He would give you the shirt right off his back if he thought you needed it.
He gave both my boys gift certificates for the dojo one year for their birthdays. We had so much fun going for those two weeks, but was unable to continue with it being so far from home. But I can proudly say that I have been in his presence while doing what he loved. My boys remember it to this day and still have the belts he gave them for coming to his dojo.
He will be deeply missed by so many, I'm just glad I am one of the people who crossed his paths along his road of life! He will never be forgotten! We love you "Da!"

It was an incredible privilege and blessing to have Sensei Halliburton step into our lives. His positive influence on our son was truly life-changing because he was the epitome of what a REAL Sensei is. That said, he has beautifully instilled into his upper-belt students what it means to be a teacher and I have no doubt that all his students will continue his legacy. To his family - please accept our deepest sympathies. We know he loved you dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Shihan Halliburton will be miss by many people. He touched our lives, and he was a hero to us. We grieve with his family and we send our prayers to them. He spirit is with us.
Oss Shihan

Thank you Da for giving me the chance to say goodbye before you left. Don't you worry about us girls, we'll make sure not stir up too much trouble :) You & Kenny be sure to catch some big fish up there & give him a big hug & kiss for me! I love you & will miss you very much. Love Yoyo

God bless him and your family. I will never forget taking classes in 1979 when I was in the 6th grade. I took it for self confidence and it really helped. Although I was not in it long, I still tease my husband with the only move I remember and that being the outside sweeping block. Mr. Halliburton was funny and of course so amazing with his talent.

Shihan,
There are no words to express the way I feel. You mean so much to me, you are my strength, you my spirit, and you are my inspiration. I will never forget the memories that I have of you and our dojo family. It is cuz of you that I am the strong woman I have become.There's not enough words to day Thank You! I am so blessed to have walked into your dojo looking for something that my four yr. old could do. From the day I walked in I knew thais is what I also wanted to do. There warm welcoming feeling. I set my goal and I never looked back just as you said. WE LOVE YOU, WE MISS YOU, AND YOU WILL ALWAYS BE CHERISHED IN OUR HEARTS. You are a TRUE HERO to me and my kids. I say it Loud and Proud Oss!!!

Sensei you will be deeply missed. I know his daughters, family and friends will continue to shine the light onto to others as he had done throughout his years. His legacy is set in stone.

Sensei, Ally and Donna were there for me at one of the toughest times in my life. Their generosity and caring pulled me through.

Spending time up at Bass Lake with them was a weekend I wouldn't trade for anything. I'll always appreciate the insiteful things Robert said and the laughing we shared.

" Do all Dragon Masters eat at Burger King?"

My heart goes out to Donna and Ally and my prayers are with you. You have ONE AWESOME DAD and MENTOR!!!!

"Da" a great man who will be missed by so many. Thank you for just being you. You will live in our hearts forever.

It seems I have known you all my life, I will miss you very much.
Always have been and always will be your friend and student.

It is amazing how his teachings still influence us. Though far removed from our last class at Way of Japan, we still credit Sensei with helping us develop a healthy balance of confidence and humility. Thank you Sensei, from your "Killer Purple Belts"

My Sensei, my father, my friend I will always love and miss you

Oss

Aside from the 35 years of his teachings, guidance, and the fortune of witnessing his almost mystical abilities, what surprised me most about Sensei came from the last 2 years. I got to spend some social time with him in an environment of regular people who did not know who he was. I was stunned by what I saw. He was feared by the men, loved by the women, and most importantly, respected by all. His abilities went far beyond the walls of the Martial Arts world,
A TRULY AMAZING MAN......

Dear Sensei,
You had been a mentor to me my whole life and I don't want to believe that you are gone. I really want someone to say this is a bad joke and that you'll still be there when I visit the dojo when I visit home from college. I'm not really sure what else I can say. I never realized before now how much karate was a part of my life, but I know I want to keep it in my life and I hope that your spirit will still guide me through the many years ahead. Thank you Sensei for being a wonderful teacher.

Sensei,
Thank you for your teaching, your guidance and your friendship all these years. They change my life profoundly. I can't find the right words to tell you how much I will miss you.

Oos!

Sensei Halliburton will forever be remembered as a great man and legendary martial artist.

With the greatest respect, Oss!
Sensei Kathryn Doi (Quan)

haven't seen you since 1977.Will miss our training ,and crazy times.Will miss you.

Sensei, Your smile and your hard rugged ways will truly be missed. It will never be the same. The world of Martial Arts morns your passing as we have lost one of our favorite son and brother. With deepest sympathy, Foto Oliva: Shihan, Shorin Ryu Karate

Sensei was always there for all of us. No matter what we were going through, he had words of wisdom and comfort. Training at Way of Japan was more than just a hobby, it was a home away from home, a shelter in a storm, and a gathering of friends from all walks of life. I owe much to Sensei and will always try to live up to the example he set for all of us.

Words cannot say what is in our hearts, losing you is something we thought was off in the future, but God needed you more than us. Your girls are our link to you now and we will always love them and you.

Robert Halliburton and his teachings had a big impact on many men, women and children's lives over the years. He will be greatly missed.

I first Sensei when I was only 6 years old. My grandmother was very tired of my daily butt kicking I would recieve from the neighborhood bully. Every day there she would be just waiting for me. Thinking it was my red hair and freckles that made me a target. So my brother Ronny and I became members of Sensei's school. The one on Belmont in 1967. Soon after the that the butt kicking stopped. Mr brother and I trained at Way Of Japan for about 10 Years.
When I saw the Obituary in the Fresno Bee I brought back many memories.
Sensei taught us so many things besides Karate.. Confidence, and not to fight if you can just walk away. Not to be a bully or a bragger.

My prayers go out to the family and friends and students. I sorry for your loss .

"Lori"

Sensei has taught more than just self-defense in the 11 years that I have trained under him as a student. He has taught me discipline, honor, and much more. I have many memories of the humor that he had, calling me "John Fred", "Grampa".

Sensei will stay in my heart for as long as I live as a mentor, a friend, and my hero.

OSS SENSI,

Words can not express the mark you made on my life. You were a mentor, friend and brother. The world was a better place because of you. I will never forget how you always believed we could do it (what ever it was) even when we didn't believe. I can't wait until we meet again one day in Glory.

OSS

Uncle bobby , you will be missed by many. The world has lost a good teacher ,father. god be with you.

Thank you Sensei for teaching me so much as a child. I studied at Way of Japan when I was 12yrs old when the dojo was Cedar/Shields area and I studied with his daughter Donna. I am 39 now and can honestly say that there are things that Sensei taught me then that I use almost everyday, whether it be humility, patience, endurance, self confidence and self discipline. I now have two daughters and I have instilled the same disciplines into them as well. Sensei, taught them for a short time and they have gained sooo much. The youth of Fresno have lost so much in losing Sensei, but his lessons will go on in his students and hopefully they will

SENSI HALLIBURTON
THEIR WERE ONLY A FEW OF US ICONS LEFT NOW WE HAVE LOST ANOTHER. I MET BOB ABOUT 40 YEARS AGO.WHEN THE ART WAS STILL YOUNG HERE IN THE STATES.WE BECAME GOOD FRIENDS THRU THOSE EARLY YEARS.BOB HAD A LARGE IMPACT ON MY NEPHEW AL MOORE JR.HE ALWAYS HELPED HIM STAY ON THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW PATH.WHEN WE OPENED IN FRESNO. HE WAS LIKE A UNCLE TO HIM IAM SURE BOB KNEW HOW MUCH WE APPREACATED HIS HELP. WE WILL MISS HIM BUT HE IS WITH A LOT OF HIS FRIENDS INCLUDING MY BROTHERS. A SALUTE TO YOU BOB. DA SHIFU RALPH MOORE (MOORES CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS)

“But if we have the energy of compassion and loving kindness in us, the people around us will be influenced by our way of being and living.”

It saddens me to hear the loss of Sensei Halliburton. His 12 years of teachings, influence, and dedication had helped me become the man I am today. I am a father of a 15 month old boy and can't wait to tell him about my days at Way Of Japan. Your knowledge and wisdom will be passed on.

OSS Sensei !!

OSS Sensei !!

Sensei Halliburton:
I still cannot accept the idea that you will not be there to teach me and to teach my son (7 yrs. old) who I talked to you about bringing in.Going to your memorial service was the first time I cried since my mother pased away. You are (I will not use the past tense) the greatest teacher I have ever known and I know I will have the chance to speak to you again someday in a place much better than this. I still am having a hard time wrapping my mind around the fact that you will not be with us in the flesh. It is such a loss to so many people. I am glad you got to read my note I left for you when I heard you were ill. God Bless you Sir, The world of martial arts is forever changed by your passing. You will never be anonymous, I talked to my son about you just a few days ago and I am sure will continue to do so as he gets older.

How do you say goodbye to a nephew who was loved so much? Bob we love you so very much. Our lives will never be the same without you. We know that you are now among the angels looking down on us and protecting us Until we meet again on the other side. God Bless You.smwmz

Sensei, You did so much for our children, Jamie and Josh. You took Jamie who was a quiet and meek little girl, and turned her into a girl full of confidence; you pushed Jamie, when she didn't think she could be pushed any further. She received her Black Belt from you on December 16, 2000. You gave Josh direction and focus. You once told him, "emotion is a waste of energy, and focus is energy. His strong "focus" has been utilized in his academics and other athletic endeavors. Josh received his black belt on May 31, 2002. Both Jamie and Josh competed in numerous tournaments around the westcoast, and they were both always proud of the fact that many people knew Sensei Halliburton was their instructor. OSS to a man who will be greatly missed my many.

Dear Sensei:

It's been about 30 years since I trained with you and Sensei Norris at your Cedar and Shields dojo. But I felt compelled to attend your beautiful service yesterday to pay respect to you, a man who had such a positive influence on my life as a teenager. The time I spent training at your dojo was some of the most memorable, satisfying and happiest of my life. Thank you, Sensei.

With deepest respect,
Melinda "Mindy Brown" Ybarra
Student, 1978-79

Growing up in the 70's in West FRresno was tough. I beg my Dad to train with you,a 12 year old stuttering kid trying to find himself. You helped me become a man and to stay away from the bad things that life had to offer. I left Fresno for the California Highway Patrol and you told me I would be OK and to remember Tamashi! Well I made it and I'm retired. Thank you Sensei.....OSS!

dear sensei; i started training with you in 1969 at the belmont school . i was so heartbroken to hear of you're passing. it was very hard for me. i got my black belt from you in 1974 and i will never forget you. you can never be replaced as you were a one of a kind. you did so much for karate in the central valley. you will be missed so much. but you're legend will carry on forever. with deepest respect mike mazzei student 1969-1983

Sensei,
Thank you for all that you have done.
Knowing you and training with you has had a profound impact on my life.
I am thankful to have known you.

With the greatest respect,
Oos!

Robert,
Its your godson .I just wanted to say thank you for everything.May god touch you and your family.
Love
Robert

Wow-
I just heard of the loss of Sensei today (Tues 4/29) and can honestly say that it was crushing news to me .I spent years teaching here in Fresno and even though we were in direct competition on a business level I NEVER held Bob in anything other than complete esteem.Aside from being in awe of his talent as a Martial Artist ,I respected him even more so as an awesome man and TREMENDOUS asset to the M.A community.I pray that God lays his hand of comfort on Faye and the girls.

To the family, friends and students of Sensei Halliburton,
On behalf of myself, the instructors and the students, we send our prayers and heartfelt condolenses for the passing of Mr. Halliburton. I have never forgotten all that he has taught me and to this day, I carry those teachings in my everyday life and pass it on to my students. He touched many lives with his knowledge, humor and love for others and the art. He will always be remembered as a true friend, teacher and warrior. God bless.
Sincerely,
Larry Sambrano
Five Forms Fist - School of Self Defense (Kingsburg)

Sensei, I sit here and struggle to find the words that can express how I feel. You were my hero,my sensei. I will never ever forget you and the teachings that you passed on to me as a martial artist and as a man. For all of the lives you have touched in your travels as a father,teacher,friend and sensei, god awaits you with a proud smile on his face for a job here on earth that was truley well done. You will be welcomed into heaven with open arms from god and greeted with a resounding "oooosss Sensei oooosss!"

Sensai - I will always miss you. You were like my father to me. Thank you for all you gave me in Shotokan & in life. The best parts of my life were spent in the dojo training and or drilling you for info on how to become better.Thank you for all you gave me...Wally Zuniga a.k.a. Dragon

It is hard to say goodbye to a great man, father and nephew. You will be missed very much by your family, friends and students. Until we meet again on the other side. We love you and will miss you very much.

oss sensie!!! I was trained by you many years ago! you taught me so much. I seen you many times at save mart and we would just talk about many things. i miss those times. you will be missed! but allways remembered! we'll meet again someday my long time friend! and you will allways be my sensie! I wish my deepest sympathy to all his family and friends.

Donna and Ally-
David is in Iraq again, but he asked me to send his love and support to the two of you and all of his family at the dojo. There are no words to express what your father meant to my husband. As a soldier, David uses what he learned at the Way of Japan on a daily basis. I can't tell you what comfort it brings to this Army wife that he learned from the best!
Love, Laura L. Cox

Sensei did so much for so many. He will live on in the lifes of many. I am grateful and proud to be a student and friend with sensei Robert Halliburton.

Our family was saddened at the news of Sensei's passing. We extend our condolences to Donna, Alyson, Faye and the entire Way of Japan Family. Our four sons, Alex, Jonathan, Jesse and Sammy Franco were students at Way of Japan for many years. They loved their Sensei, respected his authority and valued everything he taught them. God Bless him...we will keep him and his family in our prayers.

Alex & Dolly Franco

I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Sensei Halliburton. Even though I only trained at the Way of Japan for 2 years in 1980-82, my life was forever changed from those years. I was 13. I would ditch school to go to the dojo for the 1pm class and stay until closing. I felt more at home at the dojo than anywhere else and that was because of Sensei. He called me "Pecker of the Wood" - I suppose because my last name is Peck and I have red hair. I know that it was his influence on me that inspired me to get my act together and stop ditching school. While I was ditching school to go to the dojo, if I hadn't met Sensei, I would still have ditched school but would have ended up doing something very bad for myself and for society. Sadly, I moved away to attend a boarding school and didn't see Sensei (and Faye) again until 1985 in Las Vegas at a tournament. Even while away from the Way of Japan and the daily classes under Sensei his influence on me remained. It was with that inspiration and the love for karate-do as a way of life that he instilled in me that I went to Japan after high school to train under Masatoshi Nakayama and the rest of the Japan Karate Association instructors and where I received my 1st and 2nd dans. I stayed there for 3 years. Sensei had recommended that I read "Moving Zen" (by C.W. Nicol) and it was that book which planted the seed in me to go to Japan to train.

Sensei Halliburton passed away exactly 1 month to the day after my own mother passed away so I feel an acute sense of sadness as well as sympathy for the Way of Japan family and for Faye, Donna, and Alyson.

Jeremy Peck

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I first met Robert Halliburton when he was a tall and gangly 13-year-old in the 7th grade with a pompedore and ducktails...LOL! That was in 1956, and we survived together on the roughest side of Houston (the North-side), through Burbank Jr. High and Sam Houston Sr. High Schools.
We shared many moments as teens roaming Houston’s North-side neighborhoods. Even then, Robert was always quiet and unassuming, courteous and respectful, and well-liked by one and all; yet, even at that early age, he would take no abuse from the many bullies that tried him, and neither would I. In those days, we weren't the toughest around, but everyone knew that we would not back down. Robert had one steadfast rule, never fight in your own neighborhood, if at all possible.
It was his indomitable spirit and determination to win that carried him through many successes and, also, allowed him to excel at sports, football one of his early best, then on to martial arts.
In our early martial arts years, we both studied Shotokan; he, after his stint in the Army at Japan Way, from Jim Arwood on the Eastex Freeway (then, State Highway 59), and I from Jerry Spates, of the JKA, while in the Navy, and we both received 1st Dan while very young.
Although, we had not seen one another for many years, we had a joyous reunion here in Houston, at The Legends Banquet and Awards, in September of 1999.
We spent hours there catching-up, and I was saddened when we parted, but elated we got to spend that brief time in camaraderie together.
As kids, we always got along well and watched each other’s backs...just as friends should and did back then in those violent times on the North Houston streets, and I hold great respect, admiration, and fondness for your father...both, as the fine, upstanding man he became, and as the brilliant martial artist competitor and Master Instructor.
It is remarkable and fitting that we both made the martial arts our careers, I think...smile!
I know you are even more proud of him in all ways.
I am truly saddened by this news, he was so young ... we are the same age ... and, his passing admonishes me to keep better care and watch of my own being.
He will always be a lifelong friend in my heart.
I know, without any doubt, that Robert Halliburton will be genuinely missed by many, and I am one of those that already does.
If there is anything whatsoever I can do here in Houston, never feel reluctant or hesitant about calling on me for anything, at any time.

Bless the Halliburton family, all students, instructors, and friends.

With highest regard,
Richard W. Jenkins, 9th Dan
4642 Orange Grove Drive
Houston, Texas 77039-6322
http://www.akbba.com
1-281-449-3313
RJinHouston@sbcglobal.net

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Shihan was the coolest person i know and probably will ever know. To me he was a hero, i thought he was super man. Sometimes i dream that i'm at the dojo,and i got to see him one last time before he went,but i find that it's just a dream.

I miss him a lot. I just wish i could of at least say"bye" one last time.

Dear Donna and Alli, just hours after I learned Sensei was sick, I was in firefight in Baghdad. After it was over, and I was still breathing, as on several other occasions over the years, I said quietly "Thank you Sensei"
If it wasn't for what your father did for me, I would not be able to do for others. For that, and for far more than I can ever speak to, Thank you Sensei, and thank the both of you for sharing him with all of us.
Love and respect always, David and Laura Cox

I have had much difficulty in finding the words to express how I feel about this man, sensei, mentor and friend. Sensei, although many struggle on how to pass on what you have taught, I have no doubt that, ultimately, your way will be passed on straight and well. I cannot help but think of the phrase,

"Parting the Clouds, Seeking the Way" Gichin Funakoshi

Oss!

Steven Wong

my hero, my friend, my sensei. thank you for all you gave me in shotokan & the way of japan. love ya sensei...wally zuniga a.k.a. dragon