Golf legend Billy Casper dies at 83

SPRINGVILLE, Utah, Feb. 9 (UPI) -- Legendary Billy Casper died at the age of 83 on Saturday in Springville, Utah, after a series of health problems.

Casper's son, Bob Casper, said his father's health rapidly declined after a bout of pneumonia around Thanksgiving.

"He went downhill quick," he told the San Diego Union-Tribune. "It was quick. But he didn't have any pain. It was peaceful."

Casper ranks seventh in all-time PGA wins with 51 victories under his belt.

"Billy Casper was one of the greatest winners in PGA Tour history and was a dominant player for the better part of three decades," PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem said in a statement. "We remember his three major championships and his incredible work on the greens that made him one of the best putters of his generation. Beyond his career as a player, though, we will remember Billy as tremendous husband and father, a man devoted to family, charitable pursuits and his religion. He truly has left us with a lasting legacy."

Casper played alongside the "Big Three" of golf in the 1960s, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player.

Casper was a devout Mormon who touted a "close relationship" with the military. He often spoke of driving balls off the carriers at bases in Vietnam. Casper died with his wife of 62 years, Shirley, by his side.