Walter "Killer" Kowalski 1926 - 2008
I am saddened to report that Walter "Killer Kowalski passed away earlier today at the age of 81. He suffered a severe heart attack on August 8 and was taken off of life support on August 18. While Walter may not be with us anymore, the legacy he has left wrestling fans will continue to live on.Kowalski's in-ring career lasted from 1947 until 1977. Known for his dreaded claw hold, he will always be remembered as one of the greatest heels of all-time. He cemented that legacy in 1954 when he accidentally ripped the ear off of his opponent, Yukon Eric, with a knee drop. After that event, the press gave the 6'7" villain the nickname of "Killer".
Shortly after retiring from the sport, he opened a wrestling school. The first student to graduate from the school was WWE Hall of Famer Big John Studd. The most successful female wrestler of the modern era, Chyna, also graduated from the school. The impact of his school is still being felt to this day, as the current WWE Champion, Triple H, was trained by Killer Kowalski.
Information about the funeral arrangements and donations are available at www.killerkowalskis.com. Donations to help the family pay for the recent medical expenses can also be made online.
Photo: © 2006 Eric Cohen
Comments
Apparently God needed a heel wrestler in Heaven and He got one of the best.
Killer Kowalski was and always will be a true giant in professional wrestling. He will be missed by me and every other wrestler and wrestling fan that has even heard the name Killer Kowalski.
Good-bye Killer. Rest in Peace.
The Greatest Villain Pro Wrestling ever had, and he loved every minute of it. I saw him wrestling in the 70’s and met him up close at one of his shows after he retired. A real gentleman compared to the heel we all saw on TV. Thanks Killer for all you brought the fans. Rest in Peace
I am deeply saddened but will always admire the great wrestler, Killer, especially since I believe that I am related to him.
Mike Kowalski
I was saddened to hear about the death of this great wrestler,and great man I watched him on tv a lot. I know that God must have needed a big man in heaven and he took one of the best. Rest In Peace Killer.