It’s been years, but the memory of the tragic loss of Jake Walter Nicklaus, the 17-month-old grandson of golf legend Jack Nicklaus, still resonates deeply. Jake’s life was cut short in a heartbreaking accident when he slipped away from his nanny and brother while playing at his grandparents’ home in North Palm Beach, Florida, and fell into a hot tub, despite a child barrier surrounding the pool area. Although his nanny quickly responded in attempts to revive him, Jake was pronounced dead at the hospital, leaving his family, including his father Steve, and grandfather Jack, in unimaginable grief.

In his latest X post, Charlie Rymer shared a wonderful experience he had at golf legend Jack Nicklaus‘ home in North Palm Beach, where he had the privilege of emceeing a fundraising event with Jack’s family and friends to support @Nicklaus4Kids and the Nicklaus Children’s Healthcare Foundation. “It’s always an honor when they ask me to emcee,” Rymer said, expressing his gratitude for being a part of the special evening.

The event, “The Jake”, honors the memory of Jack’s grandson, Jake, who passed away in a tragic hot tub accident at just 17 months old. “From that tragedy, millions and millions of dollars have been raised to help sick kids and their families in S Florida communities and around the world,” Rymer noted, highlighting the incredible impact of the event, which is now in its 20th year. Rymer also thanked all those who have supported the effort, including PGA TOUR professionals who played at Bear’s Club the following day, saying “To all that support this effort, thanks for your generosity.”

Nicklaus4Kids drives life-saving treatments and cutting-edge care for children through fundraisers, partnerships, and donations. Jack and Barbara Nicklaus have spent decades championing pediatric health, transforming young lives, and bringing hope to families. It wasn’t the first time Jack Nicklaus lost someone dear to him.

“I hurt like you hurt,” Jack Niklaus said at Arnold Palmer’s memorial service

Back in 2016, Nicklaus bid farewell to his friend of 60 years, Arnold Palmer, and the pain was still palpable. With a cracking voice and a tear in his eye, Nicklaus urged everyone to remember how Palmer touched their lives and “please don’t forget why.” He also shared his personal grief, saying “I hurt like you hurt. You don’t lose a friend of 60 years and not feel an enormous loss.” The service at Saint Vincent College in Palmer’s hometown was a celebration of his life, filled with laughter and warmth from stories of the golf legend.

The service was attended by nearly 1,000 golf dignitaries from around the world, and thousands more watched from remote sites. Palmer’s legacy was evident throughout the ceremony, from the stories shared by friends and family to the gold trophy the Americans won at Hazeltine. As Nicklaus reminded everyone, Palmer’s impact went far beyond his impressive golf record, which included 62 PGA Tour wins and seven major championships. “Please don’t forget why” he was so beloved, Nicklaus urged, and it was clear that Palmer’s memory would continue to inspire and touch lives for years to come.