Golfers and pundits alike were deeply saddened by the death of long-time LPGA rules official Doug Brecht, who passed passed away on Friday after a three-month battle with West Nile Virus. Many remembered the 62-year-old, who was hospitalized in August during the Jamie Farr Classic in Toledo, Ohio.
Golf world mourns the loss of LPGA rules official Doug Brecht
The golf world says goodbye to old friend Doug Brecht
Scott Halleran - Getty Images
“What I do know for certain is that Doug loved being a part of the LPGA family, and he told me -- on numerous occasions -- that he felt blessed to have a job that he loved so much,” tour commissioner Mike Whan said in a statement about the 22-year veteran of the LPGA rules team. “There was a distinctive peacefulness that always seemed to accompany Doug. No doubt, he is in a place of peace now and he will always be remembered for his kind heart and many gifts.”
Twitter reactions from players -- past and present -- as well as those outside the ropes were swift and heartfelt.
Meg Mallon @MegMallonUSA -- My heart hurts for my friend Stephanie Brecht. I am going to miss my great talks with Doug. Rest in Peace my friend your LPGA family loves U
Annika Sorenstam @ANNIKA59 -- Sad news from the @lpga. Our friend and true supporter Doug Brecht has passed. He will be missed.
@ronsirak-- @LPGA rules official Doug Brecht, who died last night of West Nile Virus, defended the integrity of golf. He was a protecter of the tour.
Anna Nordqvist @ANordqvist -- The LPGA family lost a beloved member today in rules official Doug Brecht. He made golf a better game. RIP Doug.
Lexi Thompson @Lexi -- Very sad about the loss of a very special person to the @lpga Doug Brecht, you will always b in our hearts.our prayers r with your family
Dottie Pepper @DottieandBogey -- Few people truly make the world a better place. We just lost one in the @lpga’s Doug Brecht. Prayers with Steph and their entire family.
@SophieGustafson -- We lost a great one today. Our long time rules official Doug Brecht has passed. Sad day for our LPGA family. You will be dearly missed Doug
Brittany Lincicome @Brittany1golf -- lost a member of our LPGA family today Doug Brecht. Beloved rules official. Husband. Awesome person. He will be very much missed by all.
Cristie Kerr @CKGolferChic -- RIP Doug Brecht. Beloved LPGA rules official. Husband. Great person.
@TheChristinaKim -- Doug Brecht, you were always an admirable man. Always upheld the integrity of the game of golf. You will be missed sorely, rest in peace
