December 8, 1942 – September 23, 2025

Bob Maschmeier’s story began in Cincinnati, Ohio, on December 8, 1942, when he was born to Bob and Helen Maschmeier. From an early age, his life was marked by curiosity, resilience, and a spark that would later ignite into a lifelong passion for martial arts.

As a boy, he attended St. Teresa Grade School and spent his freshman year at Elder High School. In 1957, at the age of 15, his family made a bold move westward, settling in Burlingame, California. It was there that Bob graduated from Burlingame High School in 1961 and set his sights on the world beyond.

The call to serve his country led him to the United States Air Force in 1962. Stationed at Beale Air Force Base in Marysville, California, he served four years with the Strategic Air Command as a Military Policeman. During those years, a chance introduction to Judo would change the course of his life. He poured himself into training, achieving the rank of 3rd Degree Black Belt, and discovering the discipline, strength, and community that martial arts could offer.

When his military service ended in 1966, Bob sought out new challenges and found his teacher: the late Great Grandmaster Joe Halbuna. Under his guidance, Bob began his journey in Kajukenbo, a martial art that would become not just his practice, but his life’s calling. Bob devoted himself to honoring his instructor and sharing the art with others.

In 1985, together with Frank Conway, he opened Coast Karate Studio in Pacifica. There, the studio became more than a place to train—it became a home for students, a community built on discipline, respect, and joy. Over the years, 48 of his students achieved the rank of Black Belt and beyond, many of them opening schools of their own.

Though Kajukenbo was his great passion, Bob’s journey was wide and diverse. He explored Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, Sil Lum Fut Ga, Kyudo (Japanese archery), and Restoration Massage Therapy, always seeking new knowledge, always eager to learn and share.

The martial arts world recognized his dedication with numerous honors: the Kajukenbo Self Defense Hall of Fame, Black Belt Hall of Fame, Kajukenbo Hall of Fame, World Martial Arts Federation Hall of Fame, and the Pacifica Sports Hall of Fame. He was also a Lifetime Member of Jujitsu America and proudly represented Kajukenbo at the Disney Martial Arts Festival in Los Angeles.

Yet for all the accolades, Bob’s greatest pride was never in awards, but in people. He cared for his students not only as martial artists, but as human beings. He taught strength of character, the value of good sportsmanship, and the importance of carrying joy into all that you do. He modeled dedication, compassion, and an infectious love for life.

Those who knew him often said he was a giant among men. He was indeed a big man, but it was his even bigger heart that set him apart. He helped others not only in training, but in life—offering guidance, encouragement, and even financial and emotional support when it was needed most. His laughter, his presence, and his wisdom left a mark that cannot be erased.

On September 23, 2025, Bob passed peacefully in Palo Alto, California, after a long battle with cancer. He leaves behind his sister Gina Maschmeier and her husband David Jackson; his daughter Kay Pakenham and her husband Sean; his daughter Crissy Maschmeier; two beloved grandchildren; and countless students, friends, and loved ones whose lives were shaped by his generosity and strength.

Great Grandmaster Bob Maschmeier’s story is one of service, passion, and love. His teachings live on in his family, in the hearts of his students, and in the continuing work of Senior Grandmaster Gary Deaver, who carries forward his Kajukenbo legacy with the same devotion, spirit, and heart.