Max Out Golf with Jack Nicklaus: The Ultimate Family Man on the Green

H2: The Heart of Jack Nicklaus: A Family Man at Heart

H3: The Women Behind the Legend

Jack Nicklaus may be known as a golfing legend, but to his wife Barbara and daughter Nan O’Leary, he is simply a loving husband and father. Despite his tough exterior on the golf course, those closest to him know him as a softie at heart.

H4: A Love Story for the Ages

Barbara Bash first crossed paths with Jack Nicklaus during their freshman year at Ohio State. What started as a chance encounter blossomed into a lifelong love story that culminated in their marriage in 1960. Their enduring bond is a testament to the power of love and family.

The Story of: The Honeymooners

Barbara and Jack Nicklaus’ Memorable Honeymoon

A Dollar a Week Saved for Love

Barbara’s father had been saving a dollar a week since she was born, amassing $2,500 by the time she got married to Jack Nicklaus. The money covered their wedding expenses and then some. At the young age of 21, in between their junior and senior years of college, Barbara had big plans for their honeymoon – two weeks in New York City.

A Whirlwind Adventure

On their wedding day, Jack played 36 holes of golf before heading to the church on time with the help of his best man. They spent their first night at Nationwide Inn in Columbus under an alias for privacy reasons. Despite Barbara’s plans for New York City, they only stayed there for three days due to rain.

Unexpected Adventures

During their short stay in NYC, they managed to see shows like “La Plume de Ma Tante” and “Camelot,” dine at Sardi’s, go shoe shopping for Barbara, and even drive around the city streets in a convertible Buick Special. A chance encounter with an acquaintance led them to Winged Foot Golf Club where they braved pouring rain just so Jack could play.

From NYC to Atlantic City

After leaving NYC earlier than planned due to weather conditions, they headed towards Atlantic City but made a pit stop at Pine Valley Golf Club along the way. Despite being recognized immediately upon arrival at Pine Valley as a stag club member-only establishment, it didn’t deter them from enjoying some quality time together.


The honeymoon may not have gone exactly as planned but it was filled with unexpected adventures that set the tone for Barbara and Jack Nicklaus’ enduring love story that has spanned nearly six decades. Their dedication and support for each other have been evident throughout their marriage journey.
So next time you think about your honeymoon plans or any adventure you embark on with your loved one remember that sometimes detours can lead to unforgettable memories!H2: The Heartwarming Story of Jack and Barbara Nicklaus

H3: A Memorable Honeymoon Adventure

Jack and Barbara Nicklaus have a love story that is as heartwarming as it is adventurous. Despite facing challenges along the way, their bond has only grown stronger over the years. One particular memory that stands out is their honeymoon trip to New York City, which turned into a whirlwind adventure filled with golf, laughter, and unexpected surprises.

H4: Overcoming Obstacles with Love and Laughter

When Jack was told that women were not allowed at the golf course he wanted to play at during their honeymoon, he could have easily given up on the idea of playing. However, thanks to a kind member who allowed him to play while Barbara watched from outside gates, they turned what could have been a disappointing situation into a fun memory they still laugh about today.

Despite facing challenges such as Jack being away for a golf tournament when their first child was born, the couple always found ways to overcome obstacles with love and laughter. From surprising phone calls announcing new arrivals to impromptu dinners with celebrity guests like Bob Hope and James Garner, Jack and Barbara’s journey together has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Their ability to find joy in even the most unexpected situations is what makes their love story so special. Whether it’s cutting short a two-week honeymoon in New York City or navigating through parenthood while juggling busy schedules, Jack and Barbara have always found ways to make each moment count.

Jack and Barbara Nicklaus’ story serves as an inspiration for couples everywhere. Their unwavering love for each other has stood the test of time and continues to grow stronger with each passing year. By embracing life’s challenges with humor and grace, they have created a legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.

The Importance of Family for Jack Nicklaus

Barbara’s Surprise Announcement

Jack Nicklaus was in for a surprise when his wife, Barbara, casually mentioned that she was getting ready to have a baby. It took him a moment to process the news, but then it hit him like a ton of bricks – they were about to welcome their third child into the world. The couple already had two boys, Jackie and Steve, and had planned to name their third child Robert James if it was a boy. However, they were thrilled to have a girl and named her Nan.

A Mass Exit

When Jack shared the news with his friends at the American Cancer Society meeting, there was such an immediate exodus from the room that Barbara couldn’t help but laugh. Nan arrived just a few hours later at 12:15 am.

Jack’s Commitment to Family

Jack made a promise early on in his marriage that he would never be away from home for more than two weeks at a time. Despite one exception for work commitments in South Africa with Gary Player, he kept this promise faithfully. He didn’t want his children growing up without knowing their father or being separated from his family for extended periods.

Barbara’s Adjustment as a New Mom

During Jack’s rookie year on the PGA Tour in 1962, Barbara tried her best to accompany him whenever possible despite having baby Jackie with her. She recalls an amusing incident where she insisted on bringing all sorts of baby gear on one trip until she realized motel cribs and sheets were perfectly fine.

The Wisdom of Eleta Mangrum

During one Masters tournament where Barbara felt homesick without her baby by her side, she received some unexpected advice from Lloyd Mangrum’s wife, Eleta. Eleta reminded Barbara that she had Jack long before their children came along and would have him long after they left home. This simple yet profound advice stuck with Barbara throughout their marriage.

Jack Nicklaus’ dedication to his family and commitment to being present in their lives has been unwavering throughout his career as one of golf’s greatest legends.

The Nicklaus Family: A Legacy of Love and Laughter

Barbara: The Backbone of the Nicklaus Clan

Barbara, the matriarch of the Nicklaus family, played a crucial role in Jack’s success as a golfer. Her unwavering support and sacrifices did not go unnoticed by those who knew them best. Despite facing health challenges like kidney stones, Barbara remained by Jack’s side, proving to be his rock both on and off the golf course.

A Family Bond Like No Other

The Nicklaus family shared countless memories together, from Jackie’s mischievous antics to Gary being dubbed “The Next Nicklaus” at a young age. Through it all, they stood united as a tight-knit unit that laughed together through life’s ups and downs.

From Barbara missing only two majors that Jack played in to Jackie causing chaos on the golf course, each member of the family contributed to their unique story. Their shared experiences created an unbreakable bond that transcended fame and fortune.

As legends in their own right, each member of the Nicklaus family left an indelible mark on the world of golf. Their legacy lives on not just through their achievements but also through their enduring love for one another.

the story of the Nicklaus family is one filled with love, laughter, and resilience. Through thick and thin, they stood by each other’s side with unwavering support and unconditional love. Their tale serves as a reminder that no matter how famous or successful one may become, it is ultimately our relationships with our loved ones that define us in life.# The Family First Philosophy of Jack Nicklaus

A Look Inside the Nicklaus Home

A Legacy of Love and Support

Jack Nicklaus, a golf legend with 18 major championships under his belt, is known for his fierce competitiveness on the course. However, behind the scenes, he is a devoted family man who puts his loved ones above all else.

In a recent interview at their home in North Palm Beach, Florida, Jack and Barbara Nicklaus opened up about the challenges they have faced as a family. From the tragic loss of their 17-month-old son to the everyday struggles of raising 22 grandchildren, the Nicklauses have weathered it all together.

Despite their fame and fortune, family has always been a top priority for Jack and Barbara. They have made countless sacrifices to ensure that they are present for important milestones in their children’s lives. Whether it’s requesting early tee times to make it back home for games or taking annual trips with their daughters, the Nicklauses have always put family first.

Even in his professional career, Jack has always made sure to involve his family. His children often caddied for him during tournaments, showing that even on the golf course, family comes first.

Mike Malaska, who has worked closely with Jack for nearly 30 years, recalls an encounter with Jack that left him feeling unsettled. Despite being warned not to look Jack in the eyes due to his intimidating presence on the course, Mike couldn’t help but meet his gaze. However, when it comes to family members like Nan who know him best say he is nothing but a “pansy.”

The Nicklaus home is filled with reminders of their strong bond as a family. From photos hanging on spiral stands to coded calendars tracking grandkids’ activities – every corner reflects love and support that binds them together.

Jack Nicklaus may be known as one of golf’s greatest players but at heart he is just another loving father and husband who values nothing more than spending time with those closest to him.