02/10/2026
In Memoriam: Kim Taylor, Iaido Renshi 7-Dan; Jodo Renshi 7-Dan
Kim Taylor sensei, a tireless builder of Canadian Iaido and Jodo and a beloved teacher, passed away in February 2026. Widely recognized for his decades-long dedication to Canadian budo community, Taylor sensei was instrumental in building and nurturing both Iaido and Jodo in Canada since the mid 1980s.
Taylor sensei founded the Sei Do Kai Iaido and Jodo Club (1987), organized the first Canadian Iaido grading (1991) and founded the longest running Iaido and Jodo seminar in North America (Guelph Spring Seminar). Taylor sensei’s enthusiasm for the martial arts built meaningful connections between people. He spread his knowledge of the arts using early internet newsletters, published articles, websites, workshops, and seminars. These connections encouraged and mentored students and instructors in Canada, the United States, and many countries in Central and South America.
Kim Taylor sensei was an active member of the Canadian Kendo Federation as a CKF Board member, former CKF Secretary, former head of the CKF Jodo section and previous Vice President of the Ontario Kendo Federation.
The Canadian Iaido and Jodo community mourns his passing and celebrates a life dedicated to building the arts. His martial arts legacy lives on, remembered and passed forward through those he taught and inspired.