The wrestling world is in mourning as news of the passing of veteran pro wrestler “Butcher” Paul Vachon, at the age of 86, spreads. Butcher was a pivotal figure in the renowned Vachon Family of pro wrestling, being the seventh child among thirteen siblings and also the adoptive father of former WWE star Luna Vachon. His wrestling career spanned from 1957 to approximately 1985, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
The unexpected death of Paul Vachon on the evening of February 29, 2024, has left many shocked. Reports from Slam! Wrestling indicated that Vachon, who had plans to visit Montreal with his wife Dee, had been struggling with various health issues, including cancer, heart problems, and the lingering effects of his wrestling days. Despite his battles, he remained a resilient figure, even after facing throat cancer that affected his voice.
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Details surrounding Butcher’s demise remain undisclosed at this time. The wrestling community recalls him fondly for his post-retirement activities, where he and his wife settled in a retirement home on the Quebec-Vermont border. Known for his love of playing shuffleboard, dressing up as Santa Claus yearly, and engaging with fans through his memorabilia, Vachon’s legacy extends beyond the ring.
Greg Oliver of Slam! Wrestling highlighted Vachon’s post-wrestling ventures, which included selling memorabilia, writing memoirs, and dabbling in politics during the late ’80s and early ’90s. His WWE tenure, though brief, left a mark as he transitioned to a role as an enhancement talent towards the end of his career. With a career that intertwined with various wrestling promotions, Butcher’s influence on the wrestling terrain remains profound, sparking memories and reflections on his contributions to the sport.
