George H.W. Bush, 41st president of the United States, died at his home in Houston, Texas on November 30 at 94 years old. With his death, the game of golf lost a significant advocate and a fierce protector.
Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011, Bush had extensive family history in the game and was dedicated to seeing it grow.
Following in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps, he made numerous appearances at international golf events, helped establish the President’s Cup and was The First Tee’s first honorary chairman. He went on to receive extensive honors in golf.
Golf notables, Jack Nicklaus and Phil Mickelson were among those who celebrated the former president’s life, friendships and love of the sport by paying tribute at the Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D.C.
President George H.W. Bush was a champion of our sport. It’s only fitting that our champions celebrated him one last time.#Remembering41 #Bush41 #BushSportsDelegation pic.twitter.com/HRBGiwaAsv
— Golf Hall of Fame (@GolfHallofFame) December 8, 2018
“It is with great sorrow that we share the news of the loss of our friend and Hall of Fame Member, President George H.W. Bush. Throughout his 94 years of life, he immersed himself in the things he loved—namely politics, golf and of course, his family,” said Jack Peter, President of the World Golf Hall of Fame.
It is with great sorrow that we share the news of the loss of our Hall of Fame friend, President George H.W. Bush. It is only fitting that he is reunited with his loving wife Barbara. He was a great friend to the game of golf and we will miss him dearly. Rest easy, Mr. President. pic.twitter.com/ck0fYqpn5i
— Golf Hall of Fame (@GolfHallofFame) December 1, 2018
“It is only fitting that President Bush is reunited with his loving wife Barbara. I had the great privilege to induct President Bush into the World Golf Hall of Fame in a small ceremony at his Houston office.
“While he certainly enjoyed a life of duty and service to his country, I think the recognition he received from the world of golf meant more to him than many of his accolades.
“He was a great friend to the game of golf and we will miss him dearly. To the family and friends of President Bush, we are deeply sorry for your loss. Rest easy, Mr. President,” he concluded.