When I saw The King at The Masters in April I figured he was near the end. He passed on hitting the traditional ceremonial shot with Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player to open the tournament, could barely stand up and had aged at least ten years in the previous twelve months.
He lived a long, full life. He was the last of the great American sports icons from America 1.0. He was the Babe Ruth of his sport as far as the impact he had on it, just a great and unique combination of talent, charisma, humility, and he had the common touch. Everyone loved him and he loved people. He had all the qualities we like our heroes to have.
For those who don't know that much about Arnold Palmer or his impact on golf and society, I recommend watching the three-part documentary the Golf Channel aired on Arnie a couple of years ago. Watch it and marvel. There's never been anyone like him and never will be again.
