Karate International of Raleigh

Happy Birthday to Mr. Maidon!

At the request of his family, a memorial service will be held in his honor at Karate International on July 10, 2026, at 4720 Hargrove Road, Raleigh, NC 27616 at 4:00 pm. All are welcome!

Obituary
https://www.triadfuneralservice.com/obituaries/Jansen-Dennis-Wellendorf?obId=48903955&utm_source=copy+url&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=obituary-share&utm_content=copy+url

Congratulations to Mr.Maidon on achieving another Black Belt! He was awarded his Black Belt in the sword art of Iaido at his test in Canada today! Chris Maidon

With heavy hearts, Karate International shares the passing of our beloved O’Sensei, Grand Master Jan Wellendorf, at 86 years old.

O’Sensei wasn’t just our senior instructor — he was the visionary mind behind the Karate International system itself. His genius for innovation and his endless creativity shaped the very foundation of what we teach and how we teach it. Generations of students have trained in a system built on his ideas, his discipline, and his deep love for the art.

To so many of us, he was far more than a teacher. He was a guiding presence, a mentor, and for many — including our own family — something like a father figure. His wisdom, humor, and unmistakable spirit touched every dojo and every life he was part of.

His legacy lives on in every technique passed down, every student he shaped, and every instructor who carries his teachings forward.

We will miss him beyond words. 🙏

If you trained with O’Sensei, knew him, or have a photo with him, please share your stories and photos in the comments below. Let’s celebrate his life together. We posted our favorite photo here because it shows his true personality. We will post more in the comments over coming days.

Rob and Kathy Olevsky

Congratulations to our hometown team. North Carolina is celebrating!🏒

Carolina Hurricanes Win 2026 Stanley Cup Final | Carolina Hurricanes Franchise claims second league title with six-game victory over Vegas

We've added some daytime classes during the summer months. 👀
Hey - don't miss out on our Summer Camp's either!
👉RaleighKarate.com💪🥋

Karate International will be closed on Memorial Day. Today we pause to remember the men and women who gave their lives in defense of our nation's freedoms.❤️

Looking for something more than just an activity for your preschooler?

Karate teaches your 3–5 year old how to listen, follow directions, respect others, and believe in themselves, skills they will carry into kindergarten and beyond. 🌟

Our Little Samurai classes are high-energy, age-appropriate, and SO much fun. 👊

👉RaleighKarate.com