John Harris Bio
John Richard Harris was an American professional golfer who played on the PGA Tour and the Champions Tour. Born on June 12, 1952, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he achieved significant milestones in his career, including notable amateur wins and a professional career that began in 1976. Harris was known for his competitiveness and contributions to golf, both as a player and a coach, until his death from acute myeloid leukemia on September 17, 2025.
Early Life and Background
John Richard Harris was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and grew up in Roseau, Minnesota. He attended the University of Minnesota, where he distinguished himself in both golf and hockey. Harris was the second-leading scorer on his 1974 hockey team that went on to win the national championship. Additionally, his brother Robbie was a talented hockey player and represented the U.S. ice hockey team at the 1976 Winter Olympics. In the spring of 1974, Harris won the individual Big Ten championship in golf, showcasing his early talent in the sport.
Path to Golf
After his success in amateur golf, Harris played minor league hockey following his college years before fully committing to a professional golf career in 1975. He earned playing privileges for the PGA Tour at the Fall 1975 PGA Tour Qualifying School. Although he faced challenges on the PGA Tour, his best finish was T-26 at the 1976 Hawaiian Open. Harris’s early career was marked by determination and resilience as he navigated the competitive landscape of professional golf.
John Harris Career
Early Career (1976-1983)
John Harris turned professional in 1976, but his initial years on the PGA Tour did not yield significant success. He struggled to maintain a consistent presence on the tour, which led him to regain his amateur status in 1983. During his amateur career, he became one of the dominant players in Minnesota, winning the Minnesota State Amateur three additional times and the Minnesota State Mid-Amateur five times. His notable achievements during this period included winning the 1993 U.S. Amateur at the age of 41, which solidified his reputation as a skilled golfer.
Breakthrough (2002-2025)
After turning 50 in June 2002, Harris began a second professional golf career, competing on the Champions Tour. His first significant victory in this phase came during his fifth season on the tour at the 2006 Commerce Bank Championship. This win marked a resurgence in his career and highlighted his enduring talent in the sport. In July 2010, he took on the role of director of golf at the University of Minnesota, further contributing to the sport by mentoring young golfers. However, his tenure was marred by controversy, leading to his resignation in June 2011.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, John Harris achieved three professional wins, including one on the Champions Tour. His legacy includes significant contributions to amateur golf in Minnesota and his role as a mentor to aspiring golfers. His competitive spirit and dedication to the sport left a lasting impact on the golfing community.
John Harris Award Nominations
John Harris received recognition for his achievements in golf throughout his career, particularly during his time as an amateur and later as a professional golfer.
John Harris Awards Won
John Harris won several awards during his golfing career, including multiple state amateur championships and a significant victory on the Champions Tour. His contributions to golf were recognized both on and off the course.
John Harris Family
John Harris lived in Edina, Minnesota, where he was known for his involvement in the local golfing community. He was honored by the City of Edina when a roadway connecting Braemar Boulevard to the Braemar Golf Course clubhouse was named John Harris Drive.
Personal Life
John Harris passed away on September 17, 2025, due to acute myeloid leukemia at the age of 73. His death marked the end of a notable career in golf, leaving behind a legacy of competitiveness and mentorship in the sport.
