Tim Finchem, the former commissioner of the PGA Tour, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. His wife, Holly Finchem, revealed the news in a letter published by Global Golf Post. The disclosure occurred simultaneously with the announcement that the Finchem family is providing a $13 million gift to PGA Tour Charities.
The donation is intended to support a restructuring of the tour's charitable arm, which operates as a 501(c)(3) organization. According to the announcement, the organization plans to center its future philanthropic efforts on national campaigns aimed at creating a stronger impact in local communities. Further specifics regarding the implementation of these changes are expected to be released in the coming months.
Laura Neal, the executive vice president of strategic philanthropy for the PGA Tour, described the move as a step toward greater coordination and visibility. She stated that launching an evolved version of the charity, supported by this significant contribution, represents an exciting progression in the sport's commitment to giving back.
In her letter, Holly Finchem described the diagnosis as a painful experience that has altered their lives. She noted that despite the challenges, her husband's love for his family and his deep connection to the game remain evident in their daily interactions. The family chose to make the medical news public at the same time as the charitable announcement.
Before his career in golf administration, Finchem worked in law, politics, and business strategy. He served as a deputy adviser to President Jimmy Carter in the Office of Economic Affairs from 1978 to 1979. He also co-founded the National Marketing and Strategies Group in Washington, D.C., in the early 1980s.
Finchem served as the third commissioner of the PGA Tour from 1994 until his retirement in 2016. During his time in the role, annual prize money increased from $91 million to over $401 million. He is credited with introducing several major initiatives, including the World Golf Championships, the FedEx Cup, and the First Tee program.
