A terrible loss has hit not only the body building community, but everyone who was touched by the wisdom and advice of Mike Mentzer and inspired by the achievements of his brother Ray Mentzer..

Our office received an announcement that Mike Mentzer, award-winning body builder, sports journalist, magazine editor, author and inspiration to thousands, passed away in his sleep at the age of 49, following complications with his heart. He was found by his brother Ray. This was reportedly confirmed by Jim Manion, president of the NPC.

The tragedy has since been compounded by the news that his brother Ray Mentzer, also an award-winning bodybuilder, was reportedly found dead on June 11^th, the day after discovering his brother's body.

The brothers lived in Redondo Beach, sharing an apartment together. Both allegedly had a history of health complications, including heart problems.

Mike was born on November 15, 1951, brother Ray August 2nd, 1953.

Mike competed in many contests. After his disappointing 5th place finish at the 1980 Mr. Olympia, he left the bodybuilding scene for a while. He came back as the editor of Muscle Builder / Power magazine in the 1980's. (The magazine eventually became Muscle & Fitness Magazine). As editor, Mike helped to popularise Arthur Jones' concepts, and expanded on them, bringing them into an effective hardcore bodybuilding method, Heavy Duty (which his based on brief, high intensity workouts). Mike started his 'Heavy Duty Journal' in 1994 in Ironman Magazine, then went to work for Muscular Development in 1997, then came back to Ironman Magazine in 1999.

Ray also competed in the world of body building - winning the Mr. America contest among others.

Both will be sorely missed. We are away at the NABBA World's in Baden, Austria right now, but I'll be back next week to share my thoughts and memories of these two outstanding men.