I have never been one to be star-struck. However, it never fails that I become a wide-eyed 10-year-old when I run into heroes of my childhood as an adult. For example, we had just moved into our home in Indian Trail and I went to work out at the Siskey (now Brace) YMCA. As I’m walking out, I look to my left and on the bench press was none other than pro wrestling legend, “The Enforcer, Arn Anderson.” I almost couldn’t speak, luckily, he did. We had a quick, but pleasant conversation and I walked away once again realizing celebrities are no different that you and me. Unfortunately, another reminder of this came to pass over the weekend.
Last night my family suffered a loss that should never he felt by any parent.
— Arn Anderson (@TheArnShow) March 11, 2023
Our older son Barrett passed away.
I am struggling to write this. Tell those you love that you love them.
Barrett was just 37. pic.twitter.com/wFhPgxUQsR
Anderson (real name Martin Lunde) has now experienced the nightmare of all nightmares, losing a child. No mother and no father should ever live to see that day.
— Arn Anderson (@TheArnShow) March 12, 2023
Anderson is a member of the WWE Hall of Fame and currently works behind the scenes in the AEW wrestling promotion where his other son, Brock is working as a sports entertainer. No cause of death for Barrett Lunde has been given.
When I read this, my mind immediately went back to that meeting at the YMCA. Regardless of what we did for a living, we were just two fathers, sneaking in a quick workout on a Saturday morning before having to do “dad things.” I pray I never have to do and deal with what Martin “Arn Anderson” Lunde is today.
Barret Lunde was 37 years old.