Arnold Palmer Remembered In Hometown Of Latrobe
LATROBE (KDKA) -- The flags flew at half staff in Latrobe Monday. At the foot of his statue, people mourning the King Of Golf, Arnold Palmer, laid flowers in memorial.
Palmer died Sunday in Pittsburgh, and throughout the legend's hometown, everyone had a fond memory to share.
"I went to work for Mr. Palmer when I was 15," Gabe Monzo said.
Monzo knew Palmer well. He went from washing dishes at Palmer's club to managing the airport named after the golf legend.
"He's the person who'd talk to a king or queen Monday and Tuesday talk to some mill guys or miners, and still have the same attitude toward anyone," he said.
REMEMBERING ARNOLD PALMER:
A common man's champions, leader of Arnie's Army, signs of condolence and sadness were everywhere.
Joe Catalina was catching a flight at Palmer Regional Airport.
"I met him and it was like I knew him forever. Humble, down to earth," he said.
As one of the most beloved figures in the golf and sports world, Sports Illustrated is honoring Palmer with this week's national cover and the headline "King of Kings - Arnold Palmer 1929-2016."
Here's a look at the cover:
This marks the 12th time Palmer has graced the cover of Sports Illustrated. Michael Bamberger, Sports Illustrated senior writer, has written a tribute to the late golfer inside. Click here to read the story.
Palmer's grandson Sam Saunders reflected on his grandfather's impact on all he met.
"It's flattering. It was hard when I was younger, but as I've gotten older, I've grown to appreciate those stories, and what he meant. I can see it in their eyes, he made an impact on them," he said.
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Palmer won six majors, and while he might not go down as the greatest golfer ever, there is no debate that he did more to popularize the sport of golf than anyone else.