2017 – Smith Hart, American-born Canadian professional wrestler (b. 1948)

As the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted with energy, a man who had faced life's many challenges stood in the center of the ring, holding tightly to the legacy of his family. Smith Hart was not just another name in professional wrestling; he was a member of the illustrious Hart wrestling dynasty, born into a world where grappling was as much an art form as it was a battleground. Yet, despite this rich lineage, his journey was marked by its own struggles and triumphs that defined him.

Born in 1948 in Calgary, Alberta often referred to as the birthplace of Canadian wrestling Smith's earliest memories were filled with tales spun by his father, Stu Hart. His father founded Stampede Wrestling and instilled a passion for the sport within his children. Growing up surrounded by legends like Bret "The Hitman" Hart and Owen Hart, one might think that success would come easily for Smith. However, reality had other plans...

Smith faced numerous obstacles on his path to becoming a professional wrestler. Despite having access to ringside training from an early age thanks to his family's strong connection to wrestling circles, he often found himself overshadowed by more charismatic siblings. Ironically, it seemed that being part of such an illustrious family sometimes made it harder for him to carve out his own identity within the industry.

After years spent honing his skills both inside and outside of Stampede Wrestling’s ring where he learned not just how to wrestle but how to tell stories through physicality he finally stepped into professional wrestling at 16 years old! This moment marked the beginning of what would become a turbulent yet rewarding career spanning over several decades.

Yet life wasn’t solely about victories inside squared circles; outside them lay personal battles that tested him further... Perhaps it could be said that Smith's greatest struggle was battling against perception the relentless comparison with other members of his family who dazzled audiences worldwide with their talents.

In spite of this pressure and perhaps fueled by it Smith embarked on various tours throughout Canada and parts of America during which he competed fiercely against some notable names within independent circuits before finally getting recognized nationally! Notably, throughout these early years in particular circumstances arose where he often showcased remarkable resilience amid hardships.

This resilience bore fruit when he teamed up with fellow wrestlers during international tours across Europe and Japan a period when pro-wrestling began gaining mainstream recognition globally! Here lies another irony: while many stars basked under bright lights during television broadcasts back home or elsewhere; Smith remained content shining alongside lesser-known talents who shared similar dreams…

The turn towards WWE eventually came about; however... opportunities presented themselves only intermittently due mainly due financial constraints resulting from policies governing contracts back then! For fans looking closely at this story unfold it could be easy overlook all these nuances which shaped who Smith ultimately became both inside & outside championship rings!

Despite facing setbacks professionally including various injuries sustained over time it is worth noting how dedicatedly committed he remained towards nurturing younger generations entering sport seeking guidance along their paths towards greatness: mentoring aspiring performers through workshops organized under Harts’ auspices proved immensely valuable according testimonies left behind after passing!

Beyond ring action & mentorships an even deeper connection formed through familial ties unfolded as well... Looking beyond traditional roles typically assigned fathers/sons relationships were evident here: indeed those bonds resonated profoundly amongst all Harts involved each carrying legacies steeped within bloodlines drawn toward excellence!

A pivotal moment arrived later on when health concerns surfaced… It appears fate dealt harshly once again showcasing its unpredictable nature leaving everyone wondering what comes next? Diagnosed with terminal cancer meant facing mortality head-on forced reflections upon choices made throughout lifetime all leading back home where heartstrings tied strongly intertwined amidst loved ones.”

The news came suddenly yet sparked retrospection across community remembering contributions made... He bravely fought until surrendering eventually leaving indelible mark ingrained forever etched deeply upon hearts devoted toward keeping alive traditions laid forth generations prior alongside teachings instilled over lifetimes shared together around ringside gathering crowds aiming connect audience via storytelling bridging gaps between disparate experiences lived daily!

Bizarrely enough it can be argued then that legacy remains unbroken transcending beyond mere titles won or even championships earned alone for lasting impact truly lies deep-rooted connections built firmly establishing foundations solidified allowing future stars flourish inspired consistently reflecting lives led enriching communities enriching wider society itself inspiring others aiming pursue passions freely unencumbered still remaining true selves regardless circumstances encountered encountered ahead...