2014 was an unforgettable year of great training opportunities, memorable milestones, and time spent with awesome training partners, friends, and family – near and far. The end of 2014 took an unexpected turn and took our IMPACT Tribe by a tremendous surprise as one of our beloved Tribe mates, faithful students, Sayoc brother-in-arms, and great friends, Joe Ubial Jr. passed away unexpectedly on December 20th. He truly lived his life with love, strength, and honor in his home as he was a devoted husband to his wife, Caroline, and a caring father to his young daughter, Cara. His kind and patient servant heart was on constant display through his community service in the Filpino community, as a dedicated instructor at Tidewater Community College, and as an active student here at IMPACT Martial Arts Academy. Joe was always ready to offer a smile, guidance, a laugh, and a hug to anyone and everyone he came across. His legacy of loving service, perserverance, and committed friendship are already missed by us and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
For those who did not get the pleasure of meeting and training with Joe, please get to know him through a local broad cast highlighting his life. Also, meet him through the touching and eloquent words from two Tribe members and friends who were able to put words to a grief and rememberance we all feel deeply still. Here is a beautiful tribute from our very own Simo Eloy and the other from one of our Kuyas, Kuya Justin. Lastly, here are some wise words from one of our Sayoc Tuhons given to us as we move ahead and carry the torch in Joe’s honor.
“It is in the moments of silence that we recognize the journey our brothers once filled with the sounds of their blades.” ~TRK
