Support the Kohn Family in Memory of Sensei Michael “Mike” Kohn

Our hearts are broken as we mourn the unexpected loss of our dear friend, Sensei Michael “Mike” Kohn.

Mike was a devoted husband, loving father, respected colleague, and an extraordinary member of both the judo and Olympic sport communities. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself to serving others through sport, mentoring students, and giving generously of his time, knowledge, and heart. Whether on the tatami or behind the scenes supporting the growth of sport across Oceania, Mike led with humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment.

To so many of us, Mike was more than a sensei. He was a mentor, teammate, role model, and friend. He had a quiet way of making people feel seen, welcomed, encouraged, and valued. His influence reached far beyond the mats, and his legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

Above all else, Mike’s greatest joy was his family. He loved his wife, Jessica Takai, with all his heart and was a proud and devoted father to Mako (9), Airi (5), and Noa (6 months old). His children were the light of his life, and he embraced every opportunity to love, guide, and provide for them.

Today, our hearts are especially with Jessica and the children as they face the unimaginable loss of a loving husband and father.

This fundraiser has been created to help ease some of the financial burden during this incredibly difficult time. All donations will go directly toward supporting Jessica, Mako, Airi, and Noa, including funeral and memorial expenses, immediate household needs, and helping provide stability for the family in the months ahead.

Whether you knew Mike through judo, the Olympic sport community, his professional career, or simply as a friend, colleague, or family member, we invite you to honor his memory by surrounding Jessica and the children with love and support.

Every donation, no matter the amount, is a meaningful expression of care for the family Mike loved so deeply. If you are unable to give, we would be grateful if you would keep the Kohn family in your prayers and share this fundraiser with others whose lives were touched by Mike.

On behalf of Jessica, Mako, Airi, Noa, and the many communities Mike faithfully served, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and prayers. Your support is a reminder that even in the midst of profound loss, they are surrounded by a community that will continue to carry them with love.

July 15, 2026 UPDATE! We’ve Raised Over $13,000 — Let’s Keep the Momentum Going

We are incredibly grateful to share that, through the generosity of so many, we have raised $13,375 toward our $20,000 goal for Jessica and the Kohn family.

The outpouring of love for Mike has been overwhelming. Every donation, share, message, and prayer is a reminder of just how many lives he touched and how deeply he was loved.

As Jessica and the children continue to navigate this unimaginable loss, the support of this community means more than words can express. The funds raised will help ease the financial burden on the family and allow them to focus on one another during this incredibly difficult time.

We are now $6,625 away from reaching our goal. If you have already donated, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. One of the most meaningful ways you can continue to help is simply by sharing this fundraiser again. Every share helps us reach someone new.

In memory of Mike, let’s continue surrounding Jessica and their beautiful children with the same love, generosity, and support that he gave so freely to others.

$13,375 raised. $6,625 to go. Together, we can get there.

Thank you for continuing to stand with the Kohn family.