Accidents are uncertain and can change things in moments. That is pretty much what happened with the PGA of America’s Director of New Business Development, Dan Baker.  Just an hour ago, the PGA of America took to their official Instagram account and shared the news of his sudden demise. “It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our longtime colleague and dear friend, PGA of America Golf Professional Dan Baker,” they reported.

The respected golf industry veteran spent almost seventeen years with the PGA of America. “Dan led a storied career across the Walker Cup, Ryder Cup, Greater Hartford Open, PGA Show, and, most recently, Happy Gilmore 2. He was truly one of a kind at the PGA of America and in the golf industry. His dedication, passion, and kindness were evident in everything he did – and he laughed and joked the entire way. Rest in peace, Dan,” added the authority.

On Friday, he met with a car accident in Jupiter, Florida, and left for his heavenly abode at the age of 58. He was returning home after witnessing the opening round of the Grant Thornton Invitational in Naples when the tragic accident took place. 

Baker did a stint in player representation and event management before his time at the PGA of America. He also oversaw the annual PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando. His final show in 2024 January was the best attended in 20 years. “He poured his heart and soul into it and truly cherished the Show as if it was his ‘baby.’ The 2024 PGA Show, his last and one of the best ever, was a true testament to his efforts. We have so many great memories made while working together. He was a dynamic storyteller who brought warmth, fun, and humor to every encounter. He loved the PGA, the PGA Show, and truly all things golf. We will hold closely the shared memories of Dan. His impact on the Show and our entire team is unending and we are so grateful for his profound impact on all of us in his far too short life,” said Marc Simon, vice president of PGA Golf Exhibitions.

Baker grew up in Newtown, Connecticut. He got into the golf world by caddying at Rock Ridge Country Club when he was just 10 years old. As he grew up, the sport interested him, and he tried making it to the golf team while pursuing Economics at Wake Forest. “That was like trying to walk on to the No. 1-ranked Connecticut men’s basketball team today,” he told Global Golf Post earlier this year. “It wasn’t going to happen.”

He graduated in 1988, and after a brief period playing on mini-tours, Baker worked as an assistant professional at several prestigious clubs, including Old Town Club in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Ridgewood Country Club in Danbury, Connecticut, and Boca Grove Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida. He managed several high-profile events such as the 1997 Walker Cup at Quaker Ridge Golf Club in Scarsdale, New York, and supervised on-site activities, logistics, and operations as the tournament director for the 1999 Ryder Cup at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts. His success in those roles led him to become the tournament director of the Travelers Championship, the PGA Tour’s annual stop in Hartford from 1999-2005.

“Dan was one of those rare individuals who could light up a room with his presence,” shared a close colleague. “He had a unique ability to connect with people on a personal level, whether it was a business partner, a golf pro, or a young player just starting out. He made everyone feel valued and appreciated.” The news left the entire golf community in crumbles as they mourned the loss of yet another exceptional golfing member.

Golf world pays tribute to Dan Baker

Dan Baker has been a key spokesperson for the highly anticipated Happy Gilmore 2, helping to build excitement and anticipation around the sequel. Known for his dynamic personality and deep ties to the golfing community, Baker’s involvement has added an authentic touch to the promotion of the film, resonating with both golf fans and moviegoers. His role in the marketing and promotion efforts has been vital, ensuring that the sequel, whenever it is released, carries the same energy and charm as the original.

While Happy Gilmore 2 has not yet hit theaters, Baker’s contribution has helped generate considerable buzz, making him an important figure in the film’s pre-release success. Taking to this, one of them wrote, “This breaks my heart. I was just talking to him about Happy Gilmore last week”.

Dan Baker has made significant contributions to the golf world through his work. His passing away leaves the golf world with a huge void. Taking to this, people mourning over the loss, wrote comments like, “🙏🏾 prayers to all of Dan’s family and friends. 🕊️” and “Sincere condolences to his family & friends . May he rest in peace. 🕊️”.

Family members have expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support during this difficult time. “We are deeply moved by the love and kindness we’ve received. Dan was an incredible person who meant so much to so many. Knowing how loved he was brings us comfort,” shared a family member. He will be remembered as a loving father, husband, son, and brother.

The accident was a rather sudden one, and no one saw it coming. Imagine him enjoying the annual partnership between the LPGA Tour and the PGA Tour players and having fun. And the next moment, he is no longer there. Pretty devastating. Taking to this, one of them commented, “Tragic news. My heart goes out to his friends and family. 😢” While another simply wrote, “R.I.P. Dan 🙏”.

What do you have to say about the sudden demise of Dan Baker? Let us know in the comments section below!