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Legendary Bodybuilder Dave Draper “The Blonde Bomber” dies at 79

November 30, 2021

Legendary Bodybuilder Dave Draper “The Blonde Bomber” dies at 79.

One of the most popular bodybuilders in the history of the sport, Dave Draper, passed away at the age of 79.

Known as the “Blonde Bomber”, Dave Draper was one of the pioneers of bodybuilding. His wife, Laree Draper announced the death of her husband on her official Facebook page.

“Hi, friends, as the word’s getting out, I wanted to let you know so there’s no confusion. Dave died early this morning. I was with him and it was calm and peaceful. It, as his doctor told me a little while ago, was a good death.” – Laree Draper.

Draper won a number of prestigious bodybuilding titles in his long career, but also moved on to bigger projects.

Dave contributed to the world of bodybuilding through his writing and training. Dave was also much in demand when it came to entertainment.

Dave Draper had a very successful acting career throughout his life. Films such as Don’t Make Waves, Lord Love a Duck, Three on a Couch and Walk Don’t Run are part of his long resume.

Draper’s popularity also got him involved in TV. Dave worked on a number of shows and as well was a guest on some of the most popular talk shows. Some of the shows that Draper featured on were Host of David The Gladiator, Johnny Carson, Merv Griffin, Beverly Hillbillies, The Monkees, Karen, Hercules, ESPN Feature Story, Red Skelton and E! TV True Hollywood Story.

Writing books was another passion that Dave Draper had. He published six successful books about his career and training techniques.

Evolutionofbodybuilding.net are honored to have been contacted by Dace’s wife Laree, when he published his latest book “Dave Draper – A Glimpse in the Rear View“.

Laree was so kind to send a copy of the book, signed by Dave himself.

Dave Draper’s Bodybuilding Career

Dave’s bodybuilding career was not very long, but it was successful.

Competing between 1963 and 1970, Dave won some of the most prestigious titles in the history of the sport, such as IFBB’s Mr. World, Mr. America and Mr. Universe.

In 1967, Draper placed fourth at the Mr. Olympia, Sergio Oliva went on to win.

1963
Mr New Jersey – IFBB, Overall Winner
Mr New Jersey – IFBB, Tall, 1st

1965
Mr America – IFBB, Overall Winner
Mr America – IFBB, Tall, 1st

1966
Universe – IFBB, Overall Winner
Universe – IFBB, Tall, 1st

1967
Olympia – IFBB, 4th

1970
Universe – Pro – NABBA, Tall, 3rd
Mr World – AAU, Pro Tall, 3rd
Mr World – IFBB, Overall Winner
Mr World – IFBB, Tall, 1st

Draper also featured 32 times on magazine covers between 1963 and 1973. His fantastic physique and blonde hair made him one of the most popular athletes during that era.

Evolutionofbodybuilding.net send our deepest condolences to Dave’s wife Laree, family and friends during this difficult time.