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“Grandmaster Joseph Fox changed my life in ways that words can scarcely capture. Under his guidance, I came to understand that martial arts is not merely about physical strength or technical skill—it is a lifelong journey of integrity, respect, discipline, and faith. He showed me that every movement, every lesson, and every challenge was an opportunity to grow not only as a martial artist, but as a person of character.
Grandmaster Fox was more than an instructor; he was a mentor, a role model, and a true friend. His wisdom extended far beyond the training floor, shaping the way I approach my relationships, my responsibilities, and my faith. He lived by the values he taught, embodying humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his students. His example continues to inspire me to walk with purpose and to lead with honor.
This scholarship is not simply a financial award—it is a living testament to his legacy. It represents the continuation of the principles he instilled in me: the belief that martial arts is a path to personal transformation, that respect for others is the foundation of strength, and that faith provides the courage to persevere. By supporting future students, this scholarship ensures that Grandmaster Fox’s teachings will
ripple outward, touching lives and shaping communities for generations to come.
Through this effort, I hope others will experience the same profound growth that I did under his guidance. May they carry forward his vision, uphold his values, and honor his memory by living with the same integrity, respect, and faith that defined his life and his art.”
Grandmaster Barry Rodemaker
Erie Institue of Taekwondo
Grandmaster Fox was more than an instructor; he was a mentor, a role model, and a true friend. His wisdom extended far beyond the training floor, shaping the way I approach my relationships, my responsibilities, and my faith. He lived by the values he taught, embodying humility, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his students. His example continues to inspire me to walk with purpose and to lead with honor.
This scholarship is not simply a financial award—it is a living testament to his legacy. It represents the continuation of the principles he instilled in me: the belief that martial arts is a path to personal transformation, that respect for others is the foundation of strength, and that faith provides the courage to persevere. By supporting future students, this scholarship ensures that Grandmaster Fox’s teachings will
ripple outward, touching lives and shaping communities for generations to come.
Through this effort, I hope others will experience the same profound growth that I did under his guidance. May they carry forward his vision, uphold his values, and honor his memory by living with the same integrity, respect, and faith that defined his life and his art.”
Grandmaster Barry Rodemaker
Erie Institue of Taekwondo
Tribute to Grand Master Joseph Fox
Grand Master Joseph Fox was more than an instructor he was a defining force in my life and in my martial arts journey.
Training under his direction at the Harrisburg Institute of Taekwondo shaped my foundation as a young black belt
and set the course for everything I would later become as a martial artist, teacher, and leader.
In those early years, Grand Master Fox gave me opportunities that were far beyond what most students ever experience.
One of those opportunities came through our fellow black belt,
Art Michaels, who was writing for Inside Taekwondo, a division of Inside Kung Fu magazine.
Grand Master Fox allowed me to participate in photo sessions for those articles, demonstrating a variety of kicks and techniques.
At the time, I never imagined how far those moments would reach. Decades later, one of my students
called me from an airport and said,
“I just picked up a book called The Ultimate Taekwondo Guide and you’re in it.” I laughed, thinking he had to be mistaken.
But when I found the book myself, there I was: a young, strong, determined black belt, captured in techniques
that reflected the passion of my youth.
Seeing those photos again yes, with hair was both humbling and surreal.
Recently, I rediscovered that book and created a collage of those old images. As I looked at them,
one truth stood out above all others: none of those moments would have existed without Grand Master Fox.
His influence reached far beyond technique. He taught discipline, integrity, humility,
and the responsibility that comes with wearing a black belt. He opened doors for me, believed in me,
and trusted me with opportunities that helped shape my future in the martial arts world including contributing to his literary projects.
Grand Master Fox is missed tremendously. His impact continues to live on in every student I teach,
every instructor I certify, and every lesson I pass forward. I am honored to be part of his lineage, and I carry his legacy
with pride, gratitude, and deep respect.
Thank you, Grand Master Fox, for the foundation you built, the opportunities
you gave, and the lasting imprint you left on my life and career.
~GM Barry Rodemaker