It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Sensei Johan Roets on 3ʳᵈ February 2025.

Born on 11ᵗʰ February 1931 in Greytown, Sensei Johan dedicated his life to karate and was an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Even in his later years, he remained active as an instructor at his Roodepoort Karate Centre and served as the President of SA JKA, leaving an indelible mark on the karate community.

Sensei Johan began his karate journey in 1965, training in Shukokai, where he earned the rank of 4ᵗʰ Dan and was appointed Chief Instructor of Shukokai South Africa. However, after meeting Sensei Stan Schmidt, he transitioned to JKA in 1969 and regraded to JKA 4ᵗʰ Dan in 1977. His dedication saw him achieve 7ᵗʰ Dan in Japan in 1997, and in 2018, he was awarded his 8ᵗʰ Dan by Ueki Shuseki Shihan at the Africa Cup in Johannesburg. Remarkably, he was one of only four non-Japanese 8ᵗʰ Dans in the world at the time, three of whom were South African (Sensei Stan, Sensei Ken, and Sensei Johan).

A devout Christian with unwavering moral integrity, Sensei Johan set a shining example for karate instructors. He once said:

“Being a karate instructor is an immense responsibility. I finally realised that I am a role model. You have a student; he talks like you, walks like you, and maybe even dresses like you. We have to be careful.”

Beyond karate, Sensei Johan lived a full and remarkable life, working as a locomotive fitter, draftsman, chief designer at the reactor division of the Atomic Energy Board (Pelindaba), lecturer at Pretoria Technikon, and an engineer in the earth-moving industry building toll roads and railway lines.

He shared his life with his beloved wife Hester, his sons Eugene and Quintis, and his cherished grandchildren.

Having trained in Japan on numerous occasions, Sensei Johan was a true warrior, always ready for any challenge. He produced countless black belts, National Champions, and Springbok/Protea karateka, leaving behind a legacy of excellence.

Sensei Johan, you were truly special to us. Your presence, wisdom, and leadership will be deeply missed, but your legacy will live on in the countless lives you have touched.

Oss.