Sensei Jim Silvan Memorial and Family

This fundraising is both a tribute to an exceptional friend and teacher, Sensei Jim Silvan, and in support of his wife Midori and their sons, Sho and Josh.

Jim Silvan passed on June 6, 2021, after over ten years of prolonged illnesses. His life was truly accomplished in many ways; athlete, teacher, historian, world traveler, educator, author. Jim's life was dedicated to the advancement of martial arts training for a lifetime of benefit and enjoyment. His success is evident in the number of lives he touched and enhanced.

My first meeting with Sensei Silvan was in 1991 when I visited his dojo in Walnut Creek, California. From that time on I knew he would be like no other instructor I had before. Over the next thirty years, our relationship grew into a friendship that will forever last.

Jim's teaching approach and training principles were ahead of this time. He choose his teachers wisely and imparted their lessons in a manner that allow us to develop into the best versions of ourselves possible. His humble nature, unique sense of humor, and brilliant intellect were the tools he used.

There is no more giving person in my life than Jim Silvan, a trait and experience that will be echoed by many who knew him. Jim would give anything he could to help others in their time of need. He organized seminars, donated his personal belongings, and shared his sincere love for friends and family on too many occasions to recount here.

One of these occasions was when he supported my family in our most dire time, my youngest daughter. Christina Machiko's diagnosis of Stage 4 liver cancer in April 2000. Jim was the very first person to visit us in our home to offer comfort and support, and one of the last people to see Machi before she passed.

I ask for your support in remembering this great man and his family during their most challenging time. Your donation of any amount will be truly appreciated. Thank you very much. Pedro Bernardy