Jim Colbert, the iconic golfer known for his trademark bucket hat, has died at the age of 85. Colbert won eight PGA Tour titles and 20 PGA Tour Champions events during his successful career. His famous bucket hat became part of his identity after doctors advised him to protect himself from the sun following a severe case of sunstroke as a teenager.
Born in New Jersey, Colbert attended Kansas State University on a football scholarship before switching to golf after an injury. He joined the PGA Tour in 1966 and earned his first victory at the 1969 Monsanto Invitational Open. Colbert also achieved strong finishes in major tournaments, including top-five results at the Masters and U.S. Open in 1974.
After turning 50, he thrived on the senior tour and later became a successful golf course owner and businessman. Colbert remained closely connected to Kansas State and was honored in several sports halls of fame.
