Walter "Killer" Kowalski

Walter "Killer" Kowalski

Walter Kowalski Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Aug. 30, 2008.
EVERETT, Mass. (AP) - Pro wrestling pioneer Walter "Killer" Kowalski died Saturday from the effects of a massive heart attack. He was 81.

Kowalski died at Whidden Hospital in Everett, 12 days after his family decided to take him off life support. He had been in critical condition in the hospital since his heart attack on Aug. 8, his wife Theresa Kowalski said.

An obituary posted at Weir Mac Cuish Family Funeral Home's Web site said Kowalski began his professional career in 1947 as "Tarzan" Kowalski. His hulking 6-foot-7, 275 pound frame and a brutal wrestling style soon earned him a nickname "Killer."

Kowalski began to be known as a villain after hurting Yukon Eric during a match in Montreal in 1954.

He visited his opponent in the hospital after the match to check up on him and "the two men began laughing at how silly Eric's bandages looked. The reporter incorrectly printed that Killer was laughing at his victim and soon after, Killer quickly became wrestling's most renowned 'heel' or 'villain,'" according to the Web site.

Kowalski retired in 1977, a year after he and Big John Studd captured the WWF World Wrestling Tag Team Championship as members of "The Executioners" team.


Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press

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June 26, 2024

Dennis posted to the memorial.

April 22, 2023

Danny marquis posted to the memorial.

March 15, 2017

Valenda Newell posted to the memorial.

144 Entries

Dennis

June 26, 2024

I met him before one of the true wrestling legends. Dennis Winship Lynn,Massachusetts

Danny marquis

April 22, 2023

Met in salem mass at Richard marquis house he was a true killer

Valenda Newell

March 15, 2017

REMEMBERING WALTERS' WONDERFUL AND GENTLE SOUL WILL FOREVER REMAIN IN OUR HEARTS....MAY HE RIP

John Alves

August 31, 2016

Always will be Missed. R.I.P. Killer

Darya Kowalski

April 30, 2015

Rest in Peace

Harry Simpson

August 31, 2014

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

June 5, 2013

To The Kowalski Family My Most Heartfelt Sympathies. Walter Killer Kowalski Was An Genuine Legend Of Professional Wrestling I am saddened To Have To Bid Him Farewell. Rest In Eternal Peace Walter Kowalski.

Norris Ray

March 5, 2013

Truly one of great wrestler and trainer of all time. You gave so much to the profession and you never be forgotten. A claw hold for the ages. Prayers to the Kowalski family in the time of their loss

pedro solis

November 27, 2012

One of true wrestling hero. Made go around wanting to be a wrestling every body.

Billie Acrie

May 27, 2011

You were the best...You trained the best...RIP Killer!

David Bouffard

September 25, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

M G

January 15, 2009

My first memories of “Killer” Kowalski was seeing him at the later stages of his career, still as menacing as ever with his purple tights emblazoned with a yellow lightning bolt. The dastardly Kowalski was making life miserable for goodie-two-shoes opponents of the day like Pedro Morales. I was only a boy then (this was around 1982 or so), but even at such a young age, I knew that I was seeing someone who was among the best in their field.

As I reached my twenties (late-1990s), I enrolled in Kowalski’s professional wrestling school in Malden, Massachusetts. That’s where I was lucky enough to get to know Walter, the man behind the “Killer” persona. It was then that I realized how great a worker Walter really was. The real Walter Kowalski was nothing like the cruel, crazed “Killer” he portrayed so well for all those years in the ring.

Walter was as kind a human being as you could be lucky enough to have met. On countless occasions, young would-be wrestlers were unable to make payment for classes, or had other crisis-situations that young people with dreams and little else find themselves in all too often. Walter was always patient, understanding, and willing to work with his young students.

Walter was larger than life, yet had a genuine humbleness and treated everyone – from the top wrestlers on his cards to his brand-new guys – with respect and dignity. In a business run amok with conmen and hucksters, Walter Kowalski was a true class act and a stand-up guy. In the two years that I attended Kowalski’s school from 1998-2000, I never heard ONE bad thing said about him. His students loved him, respected him, and were honored to have a man of such vast wrestling knowledge as their instructor.

As I grew older, and I realized that a career in professional wrestling wasn’t in the cards for me, I fell out of touch with Walter and his school. I often thought about him though, and was delighted every time I saw his name in print or mentioned on television. Like all of us, I was heartbroken when I heard of his failing health.

That said, the true legacy of Walter Kowalski – at least for me – is this: I couldn’t fathom ANYTHING keeping him down for long. I honestly believed, as I’m sure many others believed, that Walter would eventually make a full recovery. In this – what would ultimately become his final battle – I assumed the ailment would suffer the same fate as Bruno Sammartino, Ed Carpentier, Yukon Eric, and the countless other wrestlers that felt the wrath of the mighty “Killer” Kowalski. In my mind, nothing – not old-age, not sickness, not ANYTHING – was stronger than The Killer.

Alas, Walter is gone, just as we all will be gone someday. But his legacy will live on forever in my heart, and in the hearts of the so many whose lives he touched. Thank you, Walter, for everything you’ve done in your career and – more importantly – in your life. There are hundreds of former students of yours who owe you far more than they could ever repay. You will never be forgotten.

Rest in Peace, Walter. You’ve certainly earned it.

Florence mother muffet Vinal

September 13, 2008

Theresa I want you to know that my prayers are with you and Walters family, I will always have a place in my heart for walter. he was a good man he will be missed

Dan Vinal

September 12, 2008

Walter Killer Kowaski has been a part of my life for about 35 years. Starting at age 4 seeing my mother go nuts and watching her whip a cake mix she was working on hit the ceiling,as Walter was teaching Bruno a thing or two on TV.

At age 18, having him come into my restaurant asking me if I wanted to become a pro wrestler. At the time all I could do is LOL .
Then one day I walked into the boy's club in Boston. I walked up to the 5th floor gym to see the man that men feared. A man, who just by looking at him you needed to respect. Only to find out he was a gentle giant.

Walter took his students under his wing, as if they were his own kids. His teaching go's past the square circle. He was a man that any one would be honored to have as a father. He was loving but firm. He would be there for any one over and above the call of duty. And you always knew if he said something, know matter if you liked it or not. What he said was the truth.

Each one of his student has a little killer DNA . In my case not only did he make me an IWF champion he made me a better father, spouse and friend . He helped me with keeping the faith in myself, man kind and a higher power.

Walter ''Killer'' Kowalski you will be missed and never forgotten

LOVE , TRUST AND REPECT

Tubby Muffet

Fred Katrencik

September 11, 2008

Among my fondest memories of Mr. Kowalski was a match I saw with my mother. He and Bruno Sammartino wrestled to a one hour draw at Pittsburgh Civic Arena.
God Bless

Jessica Goldman

September 7, 2008

We miss you Walter. Thanksgiving will not be the same with out you. I never knew you as a "killer"; only as a sweet person with great stories. Your legacy will always live on in wrestling and we already have a 3 year old that practices the claw on her brother.
Teresa we are so sorry for your loss.
with so much love,
Jessica, David, Willow, and Judah Goldman

DAVE COLEMAN

September 7, 2008

Noone did it better, Kowalski was my teacher,guide and a dear friend.Sorry I missed the farewell but I was there in spirit.Thanks for everything you taught me about this business that we both loved so much.YOU WILL ALWAYS BE THE GREATEST. WITH LOVE AND THANKS DAVE"THE SURGEON" COLEMAN

TM Ricard

September 6, 2008

My sincere sympathies to Walter's family and friends...
I remember "Killer" as being a true class-act...He was always so gracious and kind...I remember meeting him and getting his autograph at the Rhode Island Special Olympics Celebrity Sports Carnivals...He was always willing to help out and do his part for a worthy cause...I will always remember him fondly...
Rest in Peace Mr. Kowalski...Thank you for many great memories and for your tireless efforts to assist many worthy causes like the Special Olympics...Such a caring person, as he was, can never be replaced...He will be missed greatly....

ROBBIE SEYMOUR

September 6, 2008

You will always live in our hearts and prayers.

ROBBIE SEYMOUR

September 6, 2008

my condolence goes out to the kowalski family i grew up watching killer kowalski i am a huge wrestling fan i was sadden by his death... he lived a good life and trained a lot of wrestlers...may u reast in peace killer till we see each other again.RIP

Gary Stenshorn

September 6, 2008

My condolences to Walters Family. Walter has always been so kind and helpful someone was more then kind enough to pass along his knowledge, wisdom, and experience. Walter is truly exceptional, and inspiration, and Icon for us all. He will be missed very much and is with the angles now.

Frank Laske

September 5, 2008

Back in the early 90's I had the priviledge of being a Big Brother. In that role, the Big Brother organization often gave us tickets to various events. My case worker told me and my little, you can go to the rodeo at the Shriners auditorium or wrestling in Salem, NH. My little piped up for wrestling right away. The event was great, but even greater was when "Killer" autographed a free picture for him after the event. Mr. Kowalski put a glow on his face as I'm sure he did for many other kids. He was a great guy.

bob seidel

September 5, 2008

Killer's days in wrestling were the best. A mean guy in the ring, a super nice man out behind the Phila
Arena giving me his autograph. His
is a memory I'll keep forever.
My sincere condolances

Jack Kilderry

September 5, 2008

Hey Killer!

Thanks for being at my uncle's charity softball game after his death back in the 80's. You were a gentleman and shook my hand. I now shake yours in your journey forward. Thanks Killer!

John

Katlyn Johnson

September 5, 2008

To the Kowalski family I am so sorry for your loss, the wwe fans truely miss him, I know what you are going through at this Terrible Time. I had lost a family memeber this year and my uncle passed away on Valentines NIght, My thoughts and Prayers are with you at this Tragdic Time

Rosa Franklin

September 5, 2008

Rest in peace Killer. The world of professional wrestling will never be the same without you. Thank you for the lifetime of memories. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Richard Marquis family

September 5, 2008

The Family of Richard A. Marquis offer their condolences. Richard and Walter wrestled in the ring many times. They were friends and had family gatherings back then. Mid 50's. The Boston Garden and Boston Arena were their hometown rings. Pepper Gomez, Haystack Calhoun and many others there became family. The family of Richard Marquis understand the death of a great man. One with bent up noses, cauliflower ear and knees that didn't work anymore.
The son of the Flying Canadien of Salem Massachusetts (Richared Marquis Sr) says he can still see the birthday party the family of wrestlers attended in the small boys honor. What a way to grow up, as a part of a wrestling community Something he would not trade.
With Walter goes the way of the true wrestler the last of the best.

Eric Leeds

September 5, 2008

I met the Killer live and in person 22 years ago at a Red Sox game when I was 10. He talked with me and shook my hand when I got up to leave. I did not know who he was, but noticed people pointing at him and going upto him for autographs. My dad told me as we were walking out of the game that I just met the greatest wrestler there ever was. My sincerest condolences.

David Oliver

September 5, 2008

Mr. Kowalski was a true professional both in and out of the ring. I had the opportunity to attend WWWF matches at the Portland Expo Building, and see the Killer in action, in the late 60's and early 70's. He was a master at portraying his villian character in the ring. After his active retirement from the ring, he kept on giving to the industry by training those who aspired to enter the sports entertainment world known as professional wresting. He wanted all his students to be successful at their chosen profession and did not hold back sharing his knowledge. He will be well remembered for his charitable work as well. My condolences and sympathy to his wife and family during their time of sorrow. The world of pro wrestling has truely lost one of the all-time greats this past week. We need a few more Walter "Killer" Kowalskis' in this world today. Rest in peace.

Fitzhenry

September 4, 2008

To Killer Kowalski Family,

My husband and I never got to watch you wrestle live, but I remember both my mom and dad were huge fans and that is how I got into wrestling.Both my parents have pasted away and I know they will be waiting to watch KILLER wresting with all the greats that have gone before him . And also thanks to WWE on Demand wrestling fans my age 33 and my husbands and younger now have the chance to experience what a amazing gift you had and you will live on in our hearts and stories.

To Theresa:

I'll putting in a poem that has helped me and I hope in time it may give you some peace. God Bless!!
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008


Sincerely,

Joyce and Pete

Valerie Wallace

September 4, 2008

I was born to late to enjoy you in the ring but I remember hearing my dad and grandfather talking about the abdominal claw and felt a few as well. He will be deeply missed by all of the WWE fans and wrestlers.

Wayne Freedman

September 4, 2008

Dear Theresa and the entire Kowalski Family...as well as his extended wrestling family:

All of you lost someone that was special to each in a very special way. Theresa...I had the privilege and honor of having you on my bus a few times when you went to visit The Kind Killer at the nursing home. I had the honor of meeting him a few times at wrestling events (courtesy of Richard Byrne) and celebrity signings (thanks to Everett Sporting Goods).
The wrestling family lost a legend. From his days in the WWWF and all around the world, his legacy was well known.
There's an old saying in the Jewish religion "Nothing is lost while a memory still lingers." Well, this statement couldn't be any truer when we speak of the legend himself...Walter "Killer" Kowalski.
God Bless all of you!!!!

Timothy Donovan

September 4, 2008

Rest in peace Killer.

donnie donahue

September 4, 2008

my condolences to the killers family
and the wwe he will be missed very much by wwe and their fans

ROBERTA ORIEL

September 4, 2008

THERESA, MEL AND I WILL MISS WALTER VERY MUCH HE WAS SUCH A GOOD SOUL. LOVE, MEL SIMONS AND ROBERTA.

Art Finkel

September 4, 2008

I loved Killer Kowalski and his "claw hold" on the opponent's stomach. He was one of the great wrestlers when wrestling was in its heyday. Thanks for the memories.

ANDY GIROUX

September 4, 2008

May you rest in Peace Walter(Killer) I have been your number 1fan right from the begining and you broght me great joy in life. My deepest sympathies to your family as well. Andy Giroux, Holyoke,MA

ODARKA PUTNAM

September 4, 2008

I LOVE KILLER KOWALSKI IN WWE HE SO GOOD GUY. REST IN PEACE. NIW HE CAN WRESTLER WITH THE REST OF THEM IN HEAVEN. DARA PUTNAM

James Belmont

September 3, 2008

Prayers to the Kawalski family and the extended family of friends and fans. I too remember fondly watching "Killer" as a young boy with my entire family. My older sister and I would wrestle with each other making like we were like the "killer". Many joyful moments are held in our hearts and minds. I was delighted when I moved to Malden in the early 90's to here that "Killer" Kowalski lived in Malden. Thank you - Jim Belmont

Ed Ciereszynski

September 3, 2008

RIP, "killer"... you bring back fond memories of a time and place long gone, but not forgotten. I hope your life was fulfilling and rewarding. My thoughts go out to your family.

Ann

September 3, 2008

My dad was quite ill back in the early 60s, but he never missed Friday Night Wrestling with "Killer." I'd sit by his side and wonder what they were doing, I was only 7! He and Haystack Calhoun, what a pair! God Bless you Mr. Kowalski, and thank you for entertaining my dad!

LOUIS CARWELL

September 3, 2008

REST IN PEACE KILLER,THE WRESTLING WORLD HAS LOST A GREAT STAR.

Paul Weaver

September 3, 2008

I saw him perform in the ring in Perth, Western Australia when I was a teenager in the 1960s. A truly great entertainer.

brenda pratt

September 3, 2008

Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Kelly Griffith

September 3, 2008

As kids we all fell "victim" to my Dad's version of the "Killer" Kowalski claw. You gave us all a lot of fun- you will be missed. Rest in Peace.

G cox

September 3, 2008

RIP

Natalina Colucci

September 3, 2008

I remember running all the way home from CCD on Saturday mornings to watch the Killer with my father when I was about 11. They were fun times. I had the pleasure to meet him several years ago when he came to my place of work. My condolences go out to his wife, family and friends. He will be missed.

Roberta Kiley

September 3, 2008

Ah, Walter, what can I say? It was 51 years ago, I was a young girl of 13, when I first saw you strut your stuff in your purple velvet warm-up robe, in Boston Garden. I was smitten. You've been an inspiration to me ever since, especially with your work with the PAL (Police Athletic League) and CYO (Catholic Youth Organization). I've met you often, at matches, demonstrations, and a book signing. You even gave me an angel pin, which I treasure! I'm sure going to miss you, Walt!

Sharon Bratton

September 3, 2008

I remember as a kid watching "Killer" on TV. Then when I started working he would coming into the store every Tuesday morning. It was a thrill to meet a childhood hero. You will truly be missed.

Tammy

September 3, 2008

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Walter "Killer" Kowalski. I remember watching him when I was a little girl and he was a good wrestler. He trained many of the wrestlers of today. May GOD will with his family and friends at this time.

chris brackett

September 3, 2008

RIP walter you a true pioneer and a legend in the wrestling industry. you will be missed but never ever forgoten may your name live for ever and ever. we love and miss you walter "killer" kowolski

Peter Szetela

September 3, 2008

My sympathies to the Kowalski family. Like Walter I am Polish and from the Boston area. Always enjoyed watching him as a kid in the "golden age" of wrestling. I live in Florida now, but will never forget those days.

Bill Carroll

September 3, 2008

He was great to watch in action and will be missed by all wrestling fans and those in the community. My sympathies to his friends and family members at this difficult time. My dad and I always enjoyed his matches on TV in the earlier days of wrestling. He's up there with the Greats from then now.

joel larock

September 3, 2008

I can remember killer kowalski from when I was just a kid,I'm 54 now but me and my brothers where glued in front of the t.v. watching him on channel 9 wmur t.v. se ya later killer

carol farries

September 3, 2008

My condolences to the Kowalski family. I grew up watching Mr. Kowalski and was one of his many fans. Your family are in my prayers. May God Bless and Keep Your Family in His Loving Arms.

Barry Brodsky

September 3, 2008

Among my fondest memories are watching Walter "Killer" Kowalski defeat all comers at the Boston Garden in the 1950s. My sympathies to his family and friends. He was the greatest.

Renee Baghdad

September 3, 2008

I enjoyed watching "Killer" as a young girl with my dad. I had the pleasure and privilage to meet him about a year ago at a show in Byfield Ma. You will be sorely missed by wrestling fans around the world.
A wrestling fan for life

james smith

September 3, 2008

a fan for years thank you for the memories God Bless

Ronda

September 3, 2008

I can remember being a little girl and my sister and I watching wrestling with our dad - after it was over (and for years later - and now to my granddaughter) he would always say "do you want me to give you a Kowalski hold" when he was teasing or wrestling with us - it is a great memory and I am touched by this loss

PETE CULLEN

September 3, 2008

AS A YOUNG WRESTLING FAN IN THE LATE 50S AND EARLY 60S YOU WERE ONE OF THE TOP WRESTLING STARS OF THE ERA,THANKS FOR THE EXCITEMENT AND FUN! R.I.P.

CARMEN COUSINS

September 3, 2008

A true professional in every sense of the word! Killer you will be missed. May you Rest In Peace and condolences to your family.
Carmen Cousins, Tucson, AZ

Fred

September 3, 2008

Always enjoyed your wresting especially when you applied the infamous "claw hold." RIP

richard hudson

September 3, 2008

he was one of the best wrestling ever saw one of the greatest bad guys ever he also trianed hhh so his mark will forever be rip

Ronald Mehmet

September 3, 2008

Killer, I am a big wrestling fan and remember the matches you had against Bruno Samortino. Your wrestling school produced many a great wrestler. Simple you were great
Peace be with you and your family

christian urban

September 3, 2008

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.

Norman Weeks

September 3, 2008

RIP Killer. You were one of a kind.

Karen

September 2, 2008

I am a wrestling fan and he will be greatly missed. May God be with all of you during this time of sorrow. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Karen

September 2, 2008

I am a wrestling fan and he will greatly missed. May God be with all of you during this time of sorrow. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

KEVIN ALFAPADA

September 2, 2008

I'D LIKE TO THANK HIM FOR ALL THE TIMES HE CAME TO HAWAII TO DO A MATCH THOSE WERE THE GOOD DAY AND HIM AND ALL THEE OTHERS WERE THE BEST AT THAT TIME WHEN WE HAD THE CIVIC AUDITORIUM WITH JIM HADY, RIPPER COLLINS,ED FRANCES, STEAMBOAT,IAUKEA,HAYSTACK SO MANY MORE YOU LOST A WONDER FUL,MAN, AND I KNOW HE COULD MOVE A MOUNTAIN IF HE HAD TOO, BUT ALOHA FROM HAWAII AND I WAS ONLY 8 YEARS OLD TODAY I'M 51 BUT BACK THOSE DAYS THEY WERE THE BEST IN SPORTS, GOD BLESS YOU ALL AND THANKS FOR SHARING HIM WITH THE PEOPLE OF HAWAII. ALOHA

Steve Damon

September 2, 2008

A great man and great professional actor lol. God bless him

Rick Vincent

September 2, 2008

I was saddened to hear of Walter's passing .. my memories of his wrestling career and ring accomplishments go as far back as the 1950's. He was a real professional, an innovator, a pioneer, and unquestionably a true legend. More importantly, he was a kind, sincere, and caring human being who 'gave back' to his community, thereby touching the hearts of many.

My sincere condolences to the Kowalski family .. God bless you Walter, your family, and comfort all who are feeling the pain of your loss.

Rick Vincent, Montreal (Pointe-Claire) Quebec, Canada

Peter G.

September 2, 2008

Walter; You gave all the young lads at The Cardinal Newman School For Young Boys (@1965-1969) many reasons to rejoice as we followed the exploits of "The Killer" in the old Boston Garden!-Haystack Calhoun & all the others=You were the "King Of The Ring!"-we will miss you!-Peter G.

John Quinlan

September 2, 2008

Dear Theresa,
My heart and prayers go out to you and the family and friends of this great human being. I trained at the Killer Kowalski Wrestling School 1999-2000 and I'll never forget what a gentleman and great friend Walter was to me!

GOD Bless You!

Michael Moul

September 2, 2008

may god be by your side and be in piece. You will always be a champ.

ROSE, A BIG FAN

September 2, 2008

Many happy memories of Killer Kowalski, Georgeous George, The Brute, The Von Eriks and many others at the Stockyards in Fort Worth, TX. Takes me back to "the good ole days".I pray his family is at peace.

Paul Nicewicz

September 2, 2008

If there is a wrestling heaven,you're already the champ.R.I.P.Walter.You're a legend

Chrystalla Loizou

September 2, 2008

Killer Kowalski will always be known as a Legend.
I’ll never forget the days when my family would sit around the television watching the drama and action that leapt from the screen when Kowalski would enter the ring in World Championship Wrestling.
He could really make my blood boil.
Golly he was good at what he did.
Rest in peace Killer Kowalski.

John Ferzacca

September 2, 2008

Dear Kowalski Family,
I along with friends will remember the many hours of enjoyment that Mr. "Killer" Kowalski provided with his expertise in wrestling. My children, nephews and nieces have all herd about the famous "Claw Hold". The memory of Mr. Kowalski will live on through our family.
Our Condolences,

bob franco

September 2, 2008

he was a friend of Haystack Calhoun

ray garcia

September 2, 2008

rest in peace Kowalski, you gave us your heart in the ring,
and your kindness outside. Where ever you are, give them the " Claw Hold".
Love you, man.

Ray

W.J. Zebrowski

September 2, 2008

Thank you Mr. Kowalski.

rafi mosche`

September 2, 2008

"killer" was a pioneer in the sports entertainment business and he will surely be missed. He might be gone, but his name will live forever

Nancy DeSimone

September 2, 2008

I remember watching wrestling with my Dad and my brother and sister on Saturdays while my mother went grocery shopping. I loved it. It was so different from what it is today. It was such fun. In a childhood filled with fond memories, that is one I remember most vividly. Please take comfort in the fact that "Killer" brought so much pleasure to so many people.

Peggy Juarez

September 2, 2008

To the family of "Killer" Kowalski,
My condolences for the loss of your Gentle Giant! He was truly one of the Great Pioneers of Wrestling! May he return to the big ring in the sky!

A Cab

September 2, 2008

Killer... The world is going to remember you for a long time. God bless. Peace be with you.

Shirley Cardinal

September 2, 2008

As awresling sister I too know how it feels to lose a loving
great persn

Formily of Calgary, Alberta
Canada Ms. Shirley A. Cardinal

Ferrari's

September 2, 2008

Mr.Kowaiski
You will be truely missed
Your Friends at Ferrari's

Stephen Rotondi

September 2, 2008

Dear Theresa,

My deepest sympathies on the death of your husband Walter. It was a pleasure the times I met you both. He was a true gentleman.

Frederic Golt

September 2, 2008

Stanley, we were friends of your children and neighbors of yours way back in the VSL days. As my children were growing up I would always boast that I knew the "KILLER" and they would look at me with such awe."now if I could only find that picture" that you gave me,so many years ago.
Please accept my deepest sympathys from my entire family on your loss.

Cathy B.

September 2, 2008

You were a legend that will live on forever. May God bless you & your family.

Ted & Teresa Jankowski

September 2, 2008

A Prayer for the Deceased Walter "Killer" Kowalski,

Absolve, we beseech Thee, O Lord,
the soul of Thy servant the Late Walter "Killer" Kowalski,
from every bond of sin,
that being raised in the glory of the resurrection,
he may be refreshed among the Saints and Elect.
Through Christ our Lord.

Rquiem ætérnam dona eis, Dómine,
et lux perpétua lúceat eis.
Requiéscant in pace. Amen.

To the Walter Kowalski Family; We extend our condolences on the passing of your Loving husband, and friend. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you during this most difficult time.

Marion Ercolini

September 2, 2008

Kowalski Family,
It saddens me that a wonderful GENTLE GIANT has left us. I met him when he came to my place of work for copies of Old Negatives from his fellow wrestling friends in Europe. The first thing I thought of was watching him with my father many years ago. I called him Killer, and he gently asked that I call him Walter. I keep his autographed picture with my treasures. I know we will all miss him, but we will also keep his memory alive far longer than we will be around. Keep the faith.

Roger smith

September 2, 2008

I remember when I was young around 13 or so and watched the (killer) on channel 4 on Sats. and I would like to thank him for that,

William Settemio

September 1, 2008

I miss his visits to see my late Dad at the old Stadium Cake for his vegeterian meals when he hung around Sid ret from the Mass. State Police as his driver.
Always a Gentleman!

A Wrestling Fan

September 1, 2008

god bless you and your family Mr. Kowalski. You were the best.

art hooper

September 1, 2008

I have played with my son over many years using the Kowakski claw as a way to frighten him and make him laugh at the same time. I have many great memories watching "Killer" in the ring as a child myself. Thanks to good sportsmanship and a gentleman, as well.

Ron Barnes

September 1, 2008

WE have lost a good man but GOD got a champion my thoughts an prayers to his family

PATTY SCHOEN-JONES

September 1, 2008

DEAR FAMILY & FRIENDS,
HOW BLESSED YOU WERE TO KNOW SUCH A WONDERFUL PERSON. WHEN I WAS A YOUNG GIRL, MY GRANDMOTHER TOOK ME TO MANY WRESTLING MATCHES WITH HER. WHAT WONDERFL MEMORIES I HAVE OF THESE SPECIAL TIMES YOU WERE A PART OF. ANOTHER BRIGHT STAR IS SHINING IN THE EVENING SKY!

Clifford Davis

September 1, 2008

Walter "Killer" Kowalski, Thank you for the memories in the ring and all of the students that you taught after retirement. May God give your family the strength to carry on and happy memories.

Terri Kibbey

September 1, 2008

A humble man, a good man, one of my favorite customers at Eastern Bank Stoneham. Greatly admired by all and always ready and able to give you a kind word or an autograph. I am so sorry for your loss. Mr Kowalski will be missed and remembered with affection and kindness.

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