In Memory of Steve Leventhal, Sandan 3rd Degree Black Belt

Steve Leventhal passed away on June 11, 2006. He was 27 years old.

Steve started his martial arts training in 1985 at the Kirkwood Studio along with his two older brothers Dan and Andy. He was 6 years old. Later Steve's father Jake Leventhal started training. All four achieved the rank of black belt. The Leventhal family showed much ability but it would be the young Steve Leventhal who would stand out as a truly great martial artist.

Steve has competed extensively in both local and national tournaments. He was awarded a checkered gi on November 4, 2001. Steve has been rated the #1 blackbelt lightweight fighter in the Midwest Martial Arts Association for the five years he has competed. Steve has also taken many grand champion wins against black belt fighters of all weight classes.

Steve was honored this year at the MMA banquet in February by being inducted in the MMA Hall of Fame.

One of Steve's proudest moments was taking first place last year in the Hofer Invitational. The Hofer Invitational is special tournament between the Tracy Black Belt Fighting Team.

Steve had a true passion to teach. He would often talk about his students and their progress. Steve loved his students and they loved him. Steve was part of our family at Tracy's Karate. He was a brother to all of us. Below is a picture of Steve at the Hofer Invitational.