Overview

Ernie Gonzalez (February 19, 1961 – May 15, 2020) was an American professional golfer who played on the PGA Tour during the 1980s. Born in San Diego, California, he is remembered for earning one official Tour victory in 1986 and for being among the early left-handed players to win a PGA Tour event. That achievement placed him in a small group of left-handed professionals who had succeeded at the highest level of American golf at that time.

Early life and development

Gonzalez grew up in Southern California, a region with a strong golfing culture and many opportunities for junior and amateur competition. Like many players of his generation, he advanced through local and regional events before turning professional. His background and route to the professional ranks reflected the typical path for American golfers seeking to join the Tour in the late 20th century.

Professional career

During the 1980s Gonzalez competed primarily on the professional circuit in the United States. He recorded his lone PGA Tour victory in 1986, which remains the most notable result of his Tour career. That single triumph and the experience of competing week to week on the Tour were the highlights of his time as a touring professional. While he did not amass multiple titles, his presence on Tour during a competitive era of the game contributed to the depth of the field.

Playing style and significance

Gonzalez played left-handed, a characteristic shared by a minority of professional golfers. Historically, left-handed winners were relatively rare on the PGA Tour, and Gonzalez is often cited among the early left-handed players to secure a Tour victory. His achievement helped demonstrate the capacity of left-handed players to succeed at elite levels and contributed to broader recognition of diverse playing styles in the sport.

Later life and legacy

After his years on Tour, Gonzalez lived away from the constant public spotlight. He remained part of the golf community through contacts with fellow professionals and fans who recalled his 1986 win. Gonzalez died on May 15, 2020, in Chicago of complications related to Alzheimer's disease, at the age of 59. His passing was noted by those who remembered his contribution to the game and the example his victory provided for other left-handed players.

Notable facts

  • Born in San Diego, California.
  • Played on the PGA Tour in the 1980s.
  • Recorded one official PGA Tour victory in 1986 and was among the early left-handed winners.

For additional context on the tour where he competed see the PGA Tour reference above, and for information about the illness that ended his life consult the medical overview linked under Alzheimer's disease.