The professional bowling community is mourning the death of Jakob Butturff, who passed away on July 31 at the age of 32. News of his sudden death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow bowlers, fans, and organizations, all remembering him for his achievements on the lanes and his impact on the sport.

Paying tribute, PBA Commissioner Tom Clark said, “Jakob was one of the most unique players in PBA history. Fans marvelled at his delivery as he rode a wave of strikes to become a top player in the sport, capable of winning at any time, in any event. Jakob was kind, he was respectful, and he was a champion. He will never be forgotten. Our hearts are with all Butters touched on his one-of-a-kind journey.”

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Tributes pour in from across the bowling community

Messages of remembrance continued to appear across social media as members of the bowling world reflected on Butturff’s career and character.

H5G Brands, an apparel company, shared an emotional statement: “Today, we are all Jakob fans. The bowling community has lost one of its own far too soon. Jakob’s talent, passion, and impact on our sport will never be forgotten. From everyone at H5G Brands, we extend our deepest condolences to Jakob Butturff’s family, friends, teammates, sponsors, and everyone whose lives he touched. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time.”

Rest easy, Jakob. Your legacy will live on in the sport you loved and in the countless lives you inspired. Rest in Peace, Jakob Butturff. 1994–2026,” the statement further added.

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Professional bowler Tom Hess also paid tribute, writing, “A very sad day in our sport. RIP Jakob. Gone far too soon!! Fans also expressed their grief online. One post read, “So sad to hear about Jakob Butturffs passing. Was super nice the few times I interacted with him, and loved watching him bowl. Rest in peace.”

Another wrote, “Absolutely shocking news to hear that professional bowler Jakob Butturff has passed away at age 32. He was an incredible, unique bowler, and I’m at a complete loss for words right now. A massive loss for the bowling community.”

Jakob Butturff cause of death not officially confirmed

No official cause of death has been announced. Following the news, a post on X claimed that Butturff had suffered an apparent heart attack, citing information allegedly confirmed through a Facebook post. However, the claim came from an unverified account and has not been confirmed by the PBA or other mainstream media outlets. As of now, there has been no official statement regarding the cause of his death.

Who was Jakob Butturff?

Originally from Arizona, Butturff also lived in Las Vegas and Binghamton, New York, during different stages of his career. He emerged as one of professional bowling’s standout performers after his breakthrough season in 2016.

He captured his first two PBA Tour titles and went on to dominate the PBA Regional Tour. Over his career, he won a record nine regional titles and was named West Region and Northwest Region Player of the Year. According to his PBA profile, Butturff collected 27 PBA Regional Tour titles and represented Team USA seven times, helping the country win multiple gold and silver medals in international competition.

Last pro tournament of Jakob Butturff

The last professional tournament of elite left-handed American bowler Jakob Butturff was the 2026 USBC Masters, held from March 23 to March 29, 2026, at Thunderbowl Lanes in Allen Park, Michigan.

There, Butturff created a new record for the highest opening 10-game qualifying score (2,485) and recorded the second-highest 15-game qualifying total in tournament history (3,668). He had also earned the top seed heading into match play before finishing out the event. 

FAQs

What was Jakob Butturff’s cause of death?

An official cause of death has not been announced. Reports claiming he suffered a heart attack remain unconfirmed.

Who was Jakob Butturff?

Jakob Butturff was a seven-time Team USA member and accomplished professional bowler with 27 PBA Regional Tour titles and multiple international medals.