“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. 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. And, 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 George H.W. Bush, we are deeply sorry for your loss. Rest easy, Mr. President.”
– Jack Peter, President of the World Golf Hall of Fame
From his birth, it was obvious that George H.W. Bush was destined to be deeply involved in two things: politics and golf.
His grandfather, George Herbert Walker, was president of the USGA in 1920. During his time at the helm, he created the Walker Cup, a biannual competition between amateur stars from the U.S. and United Kingdom. The Walker Cup remains today as one of amateur golf’s most beloved events.
Bush’s father, Prescott Bush, was another avid golfer and also a president of the USGA before becoming a U.S. senator in 1952. Prescott Bush was an outstanding player, and an eight-time club champion at Cape Arundel Golf Club in Kennebunkport, Maine.