Ted Kresge

[Daway]

Update on Ted

I visited Ted at this house this last Christmas. It was crowded with people who were all watching the lights. In one area there were a lot of children laughing and playing with bubbles that were being blown from a man with a with a electronic bubble gun. I turned out to be Ted laughing as much as the children he was playing with. He recognized me with a great smile and hug. We talked about things for a while. I told him there were still a few of us out there that remember him and what he taught us. He smiled at that then he said “will now I like just being the bubble man who goes around making people happy”. There are a lot of stories about Ted (good and bad) but at his core he is true to his beliefs. I truly believe all he wants to do is help others. It may not have been in a way we understood or accepted but it was real to him. I have been in martial arts for 40 years now and have had many different teachers. Ted was my first and taught me more philosophy and ways to live then actual karate I sometime think. We can learn from everyone if we are open to see what they have to offer. Ted invited me to visit at his home after Christmas. I will that him up on that in a month. But for now I can tell you Ted seem at peace with himself and happy with the life he is living.

David

[gmattson]

He certainly has become somewhat of a legend in the martial arts.

[Bill Glasheen]

David

Thanks for the update on Ted. It's good to know he is doing well.

When you see him, ask him if he has any remaining copies of his book. I'm a collector of Uechi books. I would be honored to purchase one from him if that is possible.

- Bill

[Daway]

Bill I am right there with you. I have been trying to get his book for years. I remember when he first had it published and was selling it in the dojo....I thought why would I buy this when I am already getting real life training.... I was young and like many other things did not know the value of what I had.

About 10 years ago I asked him if he had any books left. He told me no that he had gotten rid of everything years before. Knowing Ted and is passion for martial arts I have a hard time seeing this happening. If nothing else I bet Kim has put something away just in case. I hope so. I hope one day he decides to give a copy to someone and have it republished. Last time I say him we talk a little about what is happening in the martial arts world and I swear I saw his eyes sparkle.

Gmattson
No one I know wants to become a legend. With it comes to many stories and mythos about you that as we age get harder and harder to live up to (if we ever could). Most legends just happens as stories spread and grow. Is he a legend? I would say yes. Does he think he is a legend or want to be,,I would say no. But his is happy and that says a lot.

On a similar note does anyone know what happened to a student of his names Sam Savage.?