It is hard to find someone in the extended family of professional golf that doesn't have a wonderful story about Barbara Nicklaus. Her kindnesses and thoughtful gestures have followed her all over the world. Saint Barbara, The First Lady of Golf, Ambassador of Golf, and the classiest lady in the game are but a few of the titles given her. This is quite amazing for someone who has never played a complete round in her life.

She met husband Jack her first week of college. The then Barbara Bash from Clintonville, Ohio wanted to be a nurse. Her father, a math teacher, drove a dry cleaning truck on Saturday mornings to supplement the family income. Barbara thought he was just helping out a friend. Her parents made sure she and her brother always had everything they wanted. Her parents sacrificed, never giving each other gifts. Barbara thought all families did things that way. It took some years before she realized how much they had gone without.

Now generous to a fault by her own admission she enjoys spending quality time with her 15 grandchildren, who all live no more than 15 minutes away. She also attends their extra curricular school activities and loves to have them for sleepovers. Girls have been hard to come by in the family. There are 12 grandsons and only three granddaughters. She and Jack have four sons and one daughter, Nan. They are her trophies.

This Christmas Barbara decided she was getting bogged down shopping and wrapping gifts. After all, that wasn't what holidays were about. Especially for a lady who enjoys sitting at the piano playing church hymns. Her youngest son Michael suggested everyone in the family go to the local mall. They would take an angel from the tree and buy a gift for the person described. Jack and Barbara then added to the special funds they have set up for each grandchild in lieu of a package. These funds can be accessed during their college years for extras. She was firm in noting that they all have trust funds that can't be touched.

Reflecting on the decades she has followed Jack OUTSIDE the ropes, she is quick to recall she didn't know a thing about golf when they met. Barbara signed up for a course in college so she would be able to visit and understand what her Golden Bear was talking about.

Once you know what to look for you'll be able to spot her at tournaments. She has a svelte youthful figure, blonde hair and wears a gold bear around her neck. There's usually one on her lapel too. She always has time to visit and exchange pleasantries. Her wardrobe includes many smart, distinctive, feminine, jackets and slacks combined in interesting color combinations that help her maintain her low profile. Perfect for a devoted TOUR wife.

Besides her family, Barbara treasures the friendships she has made through out the world. From the tribute she penned in Sports Illustrated to her late friend Winnie Palmer, she said, "Winnie sent me a beautiful teapot recently, and I will always think of her when I see the words inscribed on it: ‘A friend is the loving gardener who inspires the soul to blossom.' That was Winnie. As many others, I will miss her." After Jack had read Barbara's column his eyes welled up as he said, "I had tea from that pot this morning."

Friends and associates are eager to mention that golf's first lady has raised over 10 million dollars for charities. She's cooked hot dogs, baked cookies and chocolate cakes for her favorite causes. Whatever it took to raise funds or participate in her children and grandchildren's schools and extra curricular activities. It is not uncommon that the living legend himself is called into action, all for sweet charity.

DAVID SHEDLOSKI, author of GOLDEN TWILIGHT, Jack's final championship season says, "Jack has said that Barbara's support has meant a great deal to his career. I think his accomplishments in some way reflect THEIR career, for they have won and lost and made history as a couple. Her recall of names is astonishing, but even more impressive is her ability to remember life details about the people she meets. She listens to people and cares about them."

JACK NICKLAUS II - "Mother has been the glue in our family. Now that I also have five children I understand all that she did for us. She instilled ethics, morals and taught us right from wrong. The French toast in the morning wasn't popped out of a toaster. She is an angel. She has given me and my wife Barbara something to imitate."

HALE IRWIN - "Her patience," then he paused, "value system, well they say behind every good man is a better woman."

TOM WATSON – "You are doing a story on Barbara Nicklaus? Well she is certainly the better half of that combination!" Watson caught up with Jack on the driving range and mentioned his comment. Jack looked at him and said; "I've known that for years." As if he was surprised that was even a thought.

PAUL CELANO, Director of Golf, The Club at TwinEagles, Naples, Fla. - "I would consider it an honor to talk about Mrs. Nicklaus. We are personal friends. She is a great lady. She kept her promise to me one day. She said she would have Jack check my son Christopher's, age seven, swing. Can you imagine that? He did!"

Barbara Bash Nicklaus is almost as well known as her famous husband. HER trophy case is full of wonderful friends, many since the early lean years. Children and grandchildren fill the other shelves, as do charities that have benefited from her energy and commitment. This centuries old game that holds rules and manners as its basic tenant has a disciple who has made a difference and left a legacy for all to emulate. Her genuine grace and good will long be remembered. Barbara Nicklaus, The Ambassador!

Helen Casey, Naples Florida, is a golf columnist, radio reporter, and one of the founders of Women in the Golf Industry.

from Ladies Golf Journey - May/June 2003