Career
Funk was an Indiana high school state champion amateur wrestler for three years, as well as an Indiana State University Amateur Athletic Union champion for one year.
Funk began his career as a professional wrestler after serving in the United States Navy during World War II, starting in the southwest United States. He wrestled primarily in the Texas territories and the Central States territories during his career.
After retirement he became a promoter with Doc Sarpolis in Amarillo, Texas, where he led a thriving wrestling scene which produced many stars, including his sons Dory Funk Jr. and Terry Funk, as well as Stan Hansen, Ted DiBiase, Tito Santana, Jumbo Tsuruta and Genichiro Tenryu. Funk had a good business relationship with All Japan Pro Wrestling founder Shohei Baba, which led Funk's talent pool to useful international experience.
Funk was also heavily involved with the Cal Farley Boys Ranch in Amarillo.
Funk died on June 3, 1973 at the age of 54 and is buried at Dreamland Cemetery in Canyon, Texas.
On July 15, 2006, Funk was inducted into the George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame at the International Wrestling Institute and Museum in Newton, Iowa. The award was accepted by Terry.
Read more about this topic: Dory Funk
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