Tucson golf pro Willie Kane died of a congenital heart problem and heart disease, a Florida coroner's report says.
Kane, 43, died Saturday after completing a half marathon of 13.1 miles at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla.
"Those two contributing factors mixed with the over-exertion likely produced a fatal heartbeat and cardiac arrest," said Sheri Blanton of the Orange-Osceola Medical Examiner's Office.
Family friend Rick Tornquist acknowledged that Kane was aware of a heart problem.
"He had a slight problem with one of the valves in his heart," Tornquist said. "He had had some symptoms when working out, so he got it checked out last year and all the tests and everything came out fine."
Mike Hayes, assistant director for Tucson City Golf, said Kane took up running about four years ago.
People are also reading…
"He lost his dad at an early age and wanted to be healthy for his kids," Hayes said over the weekend. "That was one of his motivations. He ate well and took care of himself."
Services for the Tucson native and Salpointe Catholic High School graduate are set for Friday at 10 a.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle, 5150 N. Valley View Road.
A reception will follow at Randolph Golf Complex, 600 S. Alvernon Way, where Kane served as head pro since 2000.
Visitation and viewing will be Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Adair Funeral Home, 1050 N. Dodge Blvd.
Kane is survived by two sons, Parker, 5, and Chad, 3; and his mother, Mary Anne Kane, of Tucson; brothers, Pat Kane and Mike Kane; and sisters Mary Ellen Kane, Maureen Kane, and Jo Anne Kane.
● The Orlando Sentinel contributed to this report.
Memories
The Kane family is interested in any memories, photos and stories of Willie Kane that can be shared with his children. If you have something to share, please e-mail menk928@msn.com or call 529-7088.
