Earl Woods Dies at 74

CYPRESS, Calif. -- Earl Woods, who was more determined to raise a good son than a great golfer and became the role model, architect and driving force behind Tiger Woods’ phenomenal career, died Wednesday morning at his home. He was 74.

‘My dad was my best friend and greatest role model, and I will miss him deeply,’ Tiger Woods said on his Web site. ‘I’m overwhelmed when I think of all of the great things he accomplished in his life. He was an amazing dad, coach, mentor, soldier, husband and friend. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him, and I’m honored to continue his legacy of sharing and caring.’

Woods was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1998 and was treated with radiation, but the cancer returned in 2004 and spread throughout his body. Last month, he was too frail to travel to the Masters for the first time. His son finished tied for third.

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