Steven Gilbert Fisher Jr.

Steven Gilbert Fisher Jr., 63, widely known as the “California Kid” passed away on February 22, 2016. After a long battle with liver and kidney problems, Steven never faltered in staying true to his warrior roots, fighting until the very end. Born on February 14, 1953 in Los Angeles, California, Steven spent most of his childhood days attempting to conquer the trumpet, guitar, and drums or anything else he could get his hands on. Failing at most of his conquests, it was not until he began taking karate lessons, did he find his niche.

Steven began studying Shorin-Ryu at thirteen years old and never stopped from there. Quickly rising in the ranks, Steven became nationally and internationally known; competing in tournaments, defeating his opponents with swiftness and grace. Although Steven loved competition, his true passion rested in teaching. In 1971, at the tender age of eighteen years old, Steven opened Steve Fisher Karate in Hawthorne, California. He owned and operated the karate studio for forty-five years.

Tough as nails on the outside, but soft and compassionate on the inside, Steven would embark his philosophical teachings to all who stepped foot into his school. He would never hesitate to tell somebody the things they needed to hear and reveled in providing guidance and wisdom to his Little Dragons. “To become a champion, one must train, think and act like a true champion” he would say. Steven Fisher was a true champion.

Steven is preceded in death by his father, Steven Gilbert Fisher Sr. and his mother, Josephine R. Fisher. He is survived by his sister, Georgia Cheryl F. Matsumoto; her husband, Dennis Hideo Matsumoto, and his three nieces, Dennielle Mariko Matsumoto, Courtney Emiko Matsumoto, and Lanie Miyako Matsumoto all of Fort Collins, Colorado. He leaves behind numerous godchildren, his mentors Tadashi Yamashita and Mike Stone, karate brothers and sisters, family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Saturday, March 5, 2016 at Westchester Elks Lodge #2050, 8025 West Manchester Avenue, Playa del Rey, CA 90293.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to support his family with memorial expenses would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be made to:

Cheryl Matsumoto

841 Helena Court

Fort Collins, CO 80521