It has been said numerous times that in life, true heroes come along once in a great while. If we are truly lucky, these people will bless our lives and give us hope in times where there seems to be none. The wrestling world is no different, and many of us fans, when asked about our heroes of the squared circle, can rattle off names of many past legends who have inspired us. One of those names that comes to mind is a man whose name is synonymous with wrestling, and that is Stu Hart. As you may already know the wrestling world is still reeling from the loss of Stu Hart, as he passed away this past week from health problems at age 88. I know that I, along with many others, send our condolences out to all the Hart family during this time, and wish all the best to them in the future. The wrestling world has lost a legend, but in many cases we know that his legacy will continue to live on through the lives of not only his children but also his grandchildren as well. They will carry on the name Hart, and when fans see that name they will know that what they are about to see is going to be a classic.

After hearing of his passing, I began to think of how Stu now has the opportunity to look upon the face of his beloved wife Helen once more, as well as his son Owen, who we lost way too soon. His problems and his worries are over, but for us we must continue on with life and never forget how he blessed our lives and gave us a glimpse of what a hero really is. Many fans today have recognized his talents, as many stars of the present have survived his infamous "Dungeon". Names such as Chris Jericho, Lance Storm, and Chris Benoit are living testimonies to his genius. Their work ethic is a proud example of what Stu gave to wrestling. Even well into his 80's Stu Hart could make a man twice his size and built like a solid wall squeal and beg for mercy, and in a hurry these self-appointed strong men would come to a realization that respect for your elders is not some catchphrase, but a way of life.

The Hart family has faced many tragedies in the past few years, and as many of us fans already know there have also been controversies that have surrounded them and continue to haunt them. Recently I read about the funeral service that is to take place, and that the family would meet in the Hart House to remember their patriarch. This is a testament that they are willing to place differences aside and hopefully bury them forever. It is unfortunate that it takes tragedy to bring peace to troubled situations but given all that they have faced in recent years, I hope this is the final act that brings them together once and for all.

Following the death of Abraham Lincoln, his Secretary of War Edwin Stanton said "Now he belongs to the ages". I feel that in honoring Stu Hart, these words seem to fit much better than anything I could ever say. Here's to you, Stu Hart. Thanks for all that you have given and thanks for the memories. You will never be forgotten.

by Chris Crank..