In the grand tapestry of life, there are individuals who weave stories so rich and vibrant, they seem to defy the boundaries of time. Michael Matsuda is one such individual. While his youthful appearance may suggest a mere 30 years, his life’s journey has spanned an era that witnessed the birth of Hollywood, the magic of Disneyland, and the rumble of the first Model Ts.
A man of diverse heritage, Michael embodies the essence of his Japanese, Hispanic, and Italian roots. While his heart clings to his Japanese ancestry, his palate rejoices in the flavors of Italy, and his tongue strives to master the cadence of Spanish. Growing up in a vibrant Hispanic neighborhood, the sweet delight of pandulce became a staple of his childhood,a testament to the beautiful tapestry of cultures that shaped his identity.
From a young age, Michael exemplified the qualities of a true leader. As a safety at school, he not only ensured the well-being of his fellow students but also proudly hoisted the flag each morning, a symbol of his unwavering patriotism.
Michael’s love for pasta knows no bounds. A man of simple pleasures, he finds solace in a steaming bowl of this Italian delight. If given the chance, he would happily indulge in its comforting embrace every day. His culinary haven, however,lies not in the realm of fast food, but in the heart of Santa Monica, at the cherished “Earth Wind and Flour.”
A creature of habit, Michael embraces the familiar and shuns the unknown, especially when it comes to matters of the palate. His wardrobe reflects this preference for consistency, with a collection of identical pants, a multitude of black socks, and a devotion to the color black, a tribute to his beloved Kung Fu.
Michael’s cinematic tastes lean towards the classics. “Zorro the Gay Blade” and “Shaolin Martial Arts” hold a special place in his heart, along with heartwarming tales like “Blast from the Past,” “That Thing You Do,” and “Peggy Sue Got Married.”
A lifelong practitioner of Monkey Kung Fu, Michael’s true passion lies in the graceful movements of Tiger/Crane Kung Fu. While trophies may have eluded him in his youth, his dedication and talent were recognized in later years when he was twice honored as “Producer of the Year” and graced the cover of Producer Magazine.
With a lineage that boasts a great, great…grandfather who served as the Governor of California, Michael carries a legacy of leadership in his blood. Should his beloved Martial Arts History Museum face an uncertain future, he stands ready to embrace his birthright and pursue a path in politics.
Though his feet may not possess the rhythm of a dancer, Michael’s spirit yearns to move to the music. Similarly, while his voice may not carry the melody of a seasoned vocalist, his heart overflows with the joy of song. His dedication to his faith led him to serve as a song leader and even a preacher at his church for many years, a testament to his deep spirituality nurtured under the guidance of Pastor Jack Hayford from Church on the Way.
In the realm of martial arts, Michael found inspiration in the legendary figures of Lyle Fujioka, Buck Sam Kong, and Cecil Peoples. The latter not only imparted the wisdom of combat but also instilled in Michael the unwavering belief in his own fighting spirit.
When it comes to television, Michael finds comfort in the familiar banter of “Frasier,” a daily ritual that brings him joy.His love for cartoons, especially the antics of Bugs Bunny and the valor of superheroes, reflects his childlike wonder and appreciation for the simpler things in life. “I Love Lucy” and the classic “Zorro” series with Guy Williams also hold a special place in his heart, as does the captivating world of “Star Trek.”
While his dream car may be a vibrant yellow Beetle, Michael’s true sense of peace comes from the gentle sway of a boat on open waters or the quiet solitude of a moonlit beach.
His 57-year journey in the martial arts has not only honed his skills but also allowed him to forge connections with legends like Ed Parker, Ark Y. Wong, Chuck Norris, Gene LeBell, and Benny Urquidez. His friendship with Benny’s sister Lilly, spanning decades, speaks to his loyalty and enduring bonds.
Michael’s contributions to the martial arts community extend beyond the training hall. As a contributing editor for Inside Kung Fu and Black Belt magazines, and even as the owner of his own Martial Art Magazine, he has played a vital role in preserving and promoting the rich history of this ancient discipline.
Throughout his life, Michael has embraced a multitude of roles, from printer to trainer to head of media departments. His unwavering work ethic and passion for his craft have made every endeavor a source of joy, a testament to his belief that he has “never worked a day in his life.”
Even in the face of adversity, Michael has always risen to the occasion. Despite his initial aversion to Judo, he bravely utilized its techniques to defend himself against a bully, a testament to his courage and resilience.
While schoolyard crushes may have eluded him, Michael has always found companionship and support in the company of strong, beautiful women, friendships that continue to enrich his life to this day.
Above all, Michael values integrity and honesty. These principles, coupled with the fighting spirit instilled in him by Cecil Peoples, have shaped him into the remarkable man he is today.
Among his proudest moments, Michael cherishes the memory of introducing his father, a baker at the Hostess Cake Factory, to his elementary school class during a field trip. The joy of sharing his father’s accomplishments with his peers remains etched in his heart.
The pinnacle of his life’s journey, however, was the day he married his beloved wife Karen. Their union represents a love that transcends time and circumstance, a testament to the enduring power of the human heart.
While life has its share of embarrassing moments, Michael chooses to focus on the positive. A planned prank by his supposed friends served as a reminder that true friendship is built on trust and respect.
The years spent with his loyal companion, Sparky, remain a source of immeasurable joy and gratitude. Their bond exemplifies the unconditional love that can exist between humans and animals.
The opening of the Martial Arts History Museum stands as a testament to Michael’s unwavering dedication to preserving the legacy of his beloved discipline. It is a monument to his passion and a gift to generations to come.
When asked how he would like to be remembered, Michael’s response speaks volumes about his character and values. He aspires to be remembered as a man who made dreams come true, a man of unwavering integrity, a man devoted to God and the martial arts, a man who cherished his friends and loved his wife beyond measure. Above all, he wishes to be remembered as a man who never stopped believing in himself and who remains eternally grateful for the countless individuals who have supported him along the way.
This is Michael Matsuda, a man whose life story is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. Let us raise a toast to his remarkable journey, his unwavering dedication, and his boundless love for life. May his legacy continue to inspire and uplift us all.
