What Happened to the Von Erichs? Who are the Von Erichs?
Updated Jul 28, 2023
Who are The Von Erichs?
The Von Erich family, hailing from Texas, is renowned in the world of professional wrestling. Although their real surname is Adkisson, each family member who pursued a wrestling career adopted the ring name "Von Erich" in honor of their patriarch, Fritz Von Erich (Jack Adkisson). Fritz embraced this name as part of his wrestling persona, portraying a German heel character during his early days in the ring.
Tragically, Fritz passed away at the age of 68 in 1997, succumbing to cancer at his Denton County home. Heartbreakingly, five of his six sons had already passed away before him. His eldest son, Jack Jr., met a devastating accident at the tender age of 6 when he was accidentally shocked and drowned in a puddle near their Niagara Falls residence in 1959. In 1984, David Von Erich tragically passed away at the age of 25 due to enteritis while staying in a Tokyo hotel.
The family endured even more sorrow as Mike, Chris, and Kerry all took their own lives. Mike, aged 23, passed away in 1987 after overdosing on Placidyl near Lewisville Lake. Chris, at 21 years old, tragically shot himself in the head with a 9mm handgun in 1991. Kerry, aged 33, ended his life with a self-inflicted gunshot to the chest in the family yard in 1993. Today, Kevin Von Erich stands as the last surviving son.
The string of tragedies surrounding the family has led to the pervasive notion of a "Von Erich curse." The term is used colloquially to describe the chain of unfortunate events. However, the origin and purpose of this perceived curse remain largely unexplained and seldom discussed.
In the face of such adversity, the story of the Von Erich family serves as a cautionary tale about the potential influence of parental involvement, sibling rivalries, and the dangers prevalent in the world of professional wrestling.
What Happened to the Von Erichs?
In a tragic series of events, three individuals named Mike, Chris, and Kerry all lost their lives to suicide. Mike, aged 23, tragically took an overdose of Placidyl near Lewisville Lake in 1987. Chris, just 21 years old, ended his life with a self-inflicted gunshot to the head using a 9mm handgun in 1991. Finally, in 1993, at the age of 33, Kerry took his own life with a fatal gunshot to the chest in the family yard.
It's important to acknowledge that discussing such sensitive topics can be distressing. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or thoughts of self-harm, please seek help and support from friends, family, or a mental health professional. Remember, there are resources available to provide assistance and guidance during difficult times.
Who was Kerry Gene Adkisson?
Kerry Gene Adkisson, born on February 3, 1960, and sadly departing on February 18, 1993, was a celebrated American professional wrestler renowned by his ring name Kerry Von Erich. Belonging to the illustrious Von Erich family of professional wrestlers, he left an indelible mark on the wrestling world.
Kerry's most prominent tenure took place in his father's promotion, World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), where he devoted an impressive eleven years of his career. Additionally, he also gained significant recognition during his stint in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) under the ring name "The Texas Tornado."
Throughout his illustrious career, Adkisson amassed a remarkable forty championships across various wrestling promotions. Notably, he achieved the esteemed title of NWA World Heavyweight Champion on one occasion, further adding to his accomplishments as a four-time WCWA World Heavyweight Champion. These achievements culminated in Kerry becoming an impressive five-time world champion. Moreover, he held the title of WWF Intercontinental Champion during his time with the WWF.
Kerry Von Erich's contributions to the world of professional wrestling left an enduring legacy, making him a revered figure among wrestling enthusiasts worldwide.
How Many Von Erich Brothers Were There?
The six Von Erich brothers, David, Kevin, Kerry, Mike, Jack Adkisson, Jr and Chris, were a legendary and iconic wrestling family. Born into the renowned Von Erich wrestling dynasty, they collectively made a significant impact on the world of professional wrestling.
David Von Erich:
Kevin Von Erich:
Kerry Von Erich:
Mike Von Erich:
Chris Von Erich:
Jack Adkisson, Jr
Jack Adkisson Jr., the eldest child of Judy and Jack Adkisson (Fritz Von Erich) faced a heartbreaking fate at a young age. Sadly, he passed away due to an accidental electrocution and subsequent drowning in a puddle when he was just six years old.
This tragic incident occurred in Niagara Falls, New York, where the family resided in the Sunny Acres Mobile Home Park on Pine Avenue. The loss of their beloved child left a deep void in their hearts and brought immeasurable sorrow to their lives.
Which Von Erich Brother is Still Alive?
Kevin Von Erich stands as the last surviving son of the legendary Von Erich wrestling family. Born as Kevin Ross Adkisson on May 15, 1957, Kevin is the sole remaining brother among the five Von Erich siblings.
Throughout his wrestling career, Kevin garnered immense respect and admiration from fans and peers alike. He showcased remarkable athleticism and charisma, becoming a beloved figure in the wrestling world. Kevin's wrestling journey primarily unfolded in World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW), a promotion founded by his father, Fritz Von Erich (Jack Adkisson).
In the face of heartbreaking tragedies, Kevin exhibited tremendous strength and resilience. The untimely passing of his brothers, David, Mike, Chris, and Kerry, brought profound sorrow to the Von Erich family and wrestling community. Despite these immense losses, Kevin continued to honor their memories and carry on the Von Erich legacy with grace and dignity.
After retiring from active wrestling, Kevin focused on family life, cherishing the memories of his brothers and their contributions to the sport. The wrestling world and fans continue to hold Kevin in high regard, recognizing him not only as a wrestling icon but also as a symbol of the enduring bond of family.
What Happened to the Von Erichs- FAQs
The Von Erich family, known for their wrestling legacy, faced several tragic losses over the years.
Kevin Von Erich is the last surviving brother.
Tragically, some of the Von Erich brothers died from suicide, while others faced health-related issues.
The Von Erich family had six brothers: David, Kevin, Kerry, Mike, Jack Adkisson, Jr and Chris.
The Von Erichs left an enduring legacy in the wrestling world, known for their athleticism, charisma, and contributions to the sport. However, their family also faced immense sorrow and loss, which has been a part of their story.