Christopher Curtis Sensei (1944-2023)

Hachidan, Okuden, Lecturer, and Special Examiner of the Ki Society, Japan

Head Instructor – Maui Ki Aikido (1996-2022)
Chief Instructor – Hawaii Ki Federation (2000-2023)
Ki Society Advisor – Europe Ki Federation (2004-2023)

Curtis Sensei’s first encounter with Aikido was in 1968, with then student of Koichi Tohei Sensei, Yoshimitsu Yamada Sensei, in New York City.  Later, after attending a three-year meditation retreat, Sensei began training with his teachers Koichi Tohei Sensei (Japan) and Shinichi Suzuki Sensei (Maui) in 1974.  Curtis Sensei served as Suzuki Sensei’s otomo for many years, accompanying him as he traveled to attend and teach seminars in Japan, the United States, South America, and Europe. 

Curtis Sensei taught many seminars in the United States, Holland, Germany, and Spain. Authoring several books, “Letting Go,” “Ki Aikido on Maui – A Training Manual,” and “Otomo – A Journey.” He was a prolific writer, speaker, and teacher.

Curtis Sensei passed away on June 9, 2023. Curtis Sensei was devoted to training, and like his teachers, he led by example and asked everyone not just to believe him but to aspire to experience all that was available to everyone. Curtis Sensei truly stood on his teachers’ shoulders and provided a teaching of Aikido that was simple and unique. His guiding light continues through all those he touched.