After the heartbreaking loss of his wife, Winnie, to ovarian cancer in 1999 after 45 years of marriage, Arnold Palmer found love again with Kathleen “Kit” Gawthrop. Their paths crossed in the world of golf—a shared passion that blossomed into a romance at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links. Kit’s then-husband, Al Gawthrop Jr. was chairman of the course, creating the initial connection. This seemingly serendipitous meeting in 2005 led to a quiet ceremony in Oahu, Hawaii, marking a new beginning for the 76-year-old golf legend.
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More Than Mrs. Palmer: Kit’s Own Story
Kit, a widow and mother of three, was more than just “Arnold Palmer’s second wife.” A University of Colorado Boulder graduate, she had built a life filled with her own experiences, passions, and connections. An avid golfer until a back injury sidelined her, Kit shared a genuine connection with Palmer through their love of the sport. Her social circle, which included a friendship with Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy, suggests a vibrant personality and diverse interests.
A Partnership Built on Shared Passions and Mutual Support
Kit’s presence was a “breath of fresh air” for Palmer, according to Hollis Cavner, director of the Champions Tour’s 3M Championship. Palmer’s daughters, Peggy and Amy, welcomed Kit into the family, appreciating the joy she brought to their father after years of grieving. This suggests that Kit’s arrival revitalized Palmer and provided a supportive, loving partnership. They shared six years of marriage, marked by mutual respect and shared interests. Sadly, their time together was cut short by Palmer’s passing in 2016.
“[The marriage] was just a breath of fresh air.” – Hollis Cavner (2005)
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
While their journey together ended sooner than anyone would have hoped, Kit’s commitment to completing their dream home in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, after Palmer’s death speaks volumes about her dedication to their shared vision. This act symbolizes their enduring bond and Kit’s strength in the face of loss. It allows us to glimpse a partnership built on mutual support, love, and respect. While some aspects of their relationship remain private, it’s likely that Kit played a crucial role in supporting Palmer during his final years.
Winnie, Kit, and the Complexity of Love and Loss
While much is known about Palmer’s enduring love for Winnie, less is explored about Kit’s approach to this history. It’s possible that Kit embraced and respected Winnie’s legacy, further enriching the narrative of Palmer’s life. Exploring this dynamic could provide valuable insight into Kit’s character and the complexities of love and loss. Further research might reveal how these two women, both integral to Palmer’s life, shaped his story in unique and profound ways.
Beyond the Headlines: A Woman of Substance
Kathleen Gawthrop’s story deserves recognition beyond simply being “Arnold Palmer’s second wife.” It’s a story of love found unexpectedly, a life intertwined with a legend, yet still distinctly her own. It’s a testament to a woman who embraced life on her own terms, even while standing beside a giant. Her resilience, her unique identity, and her significant role as Palmer’s partner and confidante paint a portrait of a life lived fully and a love story that continues to resonate. Future research may illuminate further details of her life and contributions, deepening our understanding of this remarkable woman.
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