Frank “Rocky” Fiegel
Popeye, the creation of E.C. Segar is based on a real life person. Frank “Rocky” Fiegel. Fiegel was a local tough guy in Chester, Illinois and really looks a lot like the cartoon Popeye.
“Rocky” Fiegel, was the inspiration for the spinach-eating sailor himself. Fiegel, a lifetime bachelor born in 1868, was a local legend, feared for his ability to render a good butt whooping even when attacked by several adversaries at once.
Fiegel worked at a local saloon. After his shift (and a few 
beers) he would bring a chair outside, put his corncob pipe in his mouth and take a nap in the sun. The sleeping Rocky became the subject of torment for schoolchildren who would creep near, scream and then run. Rocky would pop out of the chair, fists already flailing and ready for a fight.
