On October 25, 1999, Payne Stewart's remarkable life and brilliant golf career ended when he died tragically with five others in a mysterious plane crash in remote South Dakota. In almost twenty years as a golf pro, Stewart had won more than $11 million and had dazzled the golf world with his numerous tournament triumphs, including two U.S. Open victories and a PGA Championship. His silky golf swing and familiar natty attire of knickers and tam-o'-shanter were trademarks of his colorful persona on the course. Stewart had been enjoying possibly the greatest year of his golf career when he was killed. Stewart, however, was much more than just a golf champion. He also was a devoted husband and father, a loyal friend, and a man of faith. Even before professing his newfound faith, Stewart had established himself as one of the most popular golfers in the world. A man of strong principles and a quick smile, he was a generous benefactor, once donating his entire winner's check from the 1987 Bay Hill Invitational to the Florida Hospital Circle of Friends in memory of his father, who had passed away two years earlier. Stewart loved to laugh and relax with family and friends; he was as quick with a harmless prank as he was with a heartfelt hug. Yet he was a gritty golfer, which was evidenced by his performance in late September 1999 on golf's center stage, when he helped inspire the American team to the greatest comeback victory in Ryder Cup history. I Remember Payne Stewart captures the legacy of a faithful man, loving husband and father, and great golf champion through testimonials from dozens of people who knew him best. Fellow PGA Tour pros, relatives, college buddies, golf reporters, and others offer their favorite memories of him, ranging from his tournament play and off-course interests to his devotion to family and friends and his Christian faith. Within these pages, the flame of Stewart's memorable life still burns, providing a keepsake to be treasured by golf fans everywhere.
