Passing of Hanshi Shōchi Jhonny Bernaschewice

HEAD OF FEDERATION GEIDO TAO CHI KIHON AND HONBU DOJO

On December 11, 2024, time seemed to stand still for a moment. It was a profound shock that struck the Chi Ryu Aiki Jujitsu, Chi Ryu Iaido and Kobudo family when we learned of the passing of our Hanshi Shōchi Jhonny Bernaschewice.

Suddenly and unexpectedly, he left us. A planned surgery, unfortunately, did not have the outcome we had all hoped for. The world seemed to pause, and we all—especially Hanshi Jhonny’s family—needed a moment to come to terms with this reality.

The official memorial service took place on December 21, 2024 in Hechtel-Eksel, Belgium. Everyone who wished had the opportunity to bid a personal farewell to Hanshi Jhonny Bernaschewice at the Honbu Dojo. Later that day, a gathering was held. This was not a traditional mourning ceremony. It was Hanshi Jhonny Bernaschewice’ wish that we celebrate his life and the many connections he had fostered throughout the years. On that day, everyone did their best not to be overwhelmed by deep sorrow and grief but to connect with each other. Once again, it became evident what a truly exceptional and valuable person Hanshi Jhonny was. Like no other, he had the ability to unite different generations across national borders.

Our gratitude goes to the many helpers and supporters who worked behind the scenes to make this farewell possible. Thank you for standing by the family during this difficult time.

We will continue on the path that Hanshi Jhonny Bernaschewice began in 1964 and which he lived for every single day. We will follow his pursuits for knowledge and understanding. We will continue practicing Okinawa Kobudo and we hope that his development of Chi Ryu Aiki Jujitsu and Chi Ryu Iaido will live on within us and be carried forward in his spirit.

A wonderful tribute to Hanshi Jhonny Bernaschewice was written by Alexander van Zanten (Jiu-Jitsu Union e.V. Landesverband Hessen). The English translation will be provided below.

Federation Geido Tao Chi Kihon

Shihan Kathrin Siggelkow
Honbu Dojo

Obituary for Jhonny Bernaschewice

The Jiu-Jitsu Union e.V. Landesverband Hessen had a long-standing friendship with the head of the FEDERATION GEIDO TAO CHI KIHON, which grew over the years through organizing seminars and mutual visits, resulting in a successful collaboration.

It is with deep sorrow that we say goodbye to Hanshi Shochi Jhonny Bernaschewice, a true Grandmaster of martial arts, who left us far too soon on December 11, 2024. The world of martial arts has lost one of its greatest teachers and role models. His life journey, marked by dedication, wisdom, and unwavering discipline, leaves a deep void in the world of martial arts and in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of learning from him and knowing him as a mentor and friend. Hanshi Bernaschewice was not only an exceptional fighter, but also a teacher who shaped generations of Budo enthusiasts.

In his long and successful career as a Grandmaster, he trained countless students and helped them understand and live martial arts in all its aspects. Hanshi Bernaschewice was always in search of knowledge and improvement, which made him one of the most respected experts in his discipline. Yet, despite his extraordinary success, he always remained humble and took the time to work with each individual in a very personal way. His door was always open, and his advice went far beyond the sport itself. With his unique blend of traditional knowledge and a modern approach to martial arts, he revolutionized the understanding of many students and led them to personal and athletic achievements. As a holder of numerous master degrees and awards, he was an indefatigable ambassador of martial arts, always upholding the values of respect, discipline, and integrity.

During his decades-long career, he traveled the world to gather and share experiences and knowledge. Many of us learned not only the art of combat through his tireless work, but also the philosophy behind it, which helped us become better people. Hanshi Bernaschewice taught us not only how to fight, but also how to face life itself – with courage, determination, and a heart full of wisdom.

His passion for martial arts was boundless, and he always worked to inspire and nurture the next generation of Budokas. But just as important to him was the significance of community and human connection that the sport creates. As a mentor and friend, he always led by example, showing us that true strength lies not only in the muscles, but also in the mind.

The loss of Hanshi Shochi Jhonny Bernaschewice is a heavy blow to the martial arts community and to all who knew him. However, his legacy lives on in the many students who carry his teachings and in the worldwide Budo community he shaped with such dedication.

In reverence and gratitude, we remember him and will continue his legacy with pride. Rest in peace, Hanshi. Your light will never fade.

Our thoughts, sympathy, and condolences go out to his family.

On behalf of the Jiu-Jitsu Union e.V. Landesverband Hessen and its members,
Alexander van Zanten

Source: http://jju-hessen.de/ (17.02.202 7:39 p.m., translated via OpenAI)
Download PDF Obituary (German)