Cody “Beef” Franke, Beloved Barstool Golf Influencer, Passes Away at 31
Cody “Beef” Franke, a prominent figure in the golf community and a cherished influencer at Barstool Sports, has tragically passed away at the age of 31. His sudden death, attributed to a "sudden medical issue," has left fans and colleagues in shock.
Legacy at Barstool Sports
Franke joined Barstool Sports in January as part of the ForePlay team, which specializes in engaging golf content. In a heartfelt statement, the ForePlay team expressed their sorrow:
“We are beyond devastated to announce that our good friend and cherished Barstool Sports colleague, Cody ‘Beef’ Franke, passed away from a sudden medical issue over the weekend.”
Background on Cody Franke
Before his tenure at Barstool Sports, Franke was the head pro at Berry Creek Country Club in Onida, Wisconsin. He garnered attention for his golf training videos, which showcased clever swing tips that became favorites among golf enthusiasts. It was these videos that caught the eye of Barstool founder Dave Portnoy.
In his own words, Franke shared his love for the game:
“Golf has always been home for me… If you go to the golf course, it doesn’t really feel like work-work – I’m just at a place I’m really happy to be around. I’m home.”
A Life Cut Short
According to reports from TMZ Sports, Franke was attending a wedding in the Dominican Republic at the time of his passing. Friends and colleagues remembered him not only for his talent in golf but also for his genuinely kind nature.
Portnoy remarked:
“You will never find a nicer, more genuine person than Beef. It’s hard to even process it right now. Just another cruel reminder that tomorrow is never promised and to live each day to its fullest.”
His Impact on the Golf Community
Franke’s presence at Barstool Sports brought joy to many. His entertaining golf swing tip videos and his travels to top golf courses with the ForePlay team—including fellow members Sam Bozoian (Riggs), Frank Borrelli, and Trent Ryan—solidified his role as a key influencer.
One memorable moment from February saw Franke go viral for insisting on removing his hat before shaking hands, showcasing his class and respect.
Remembrance and Tributes
Following his passing, Riggs shared a touching tribute, reposting the viral video with a caption that read:
“Still one of my favorite videos of all time. Beef was all class.”
While the cause of death has not yet been disclosed, the golf community mourns the loss of a talented and beloved individual. Cody “Beef” Franke’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through the many lives he touched, both on and off the golf course.
Conclusion
Cody Franke’s untimely death serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life. As tributes continue to pour in from fans and colleagues, we celebrate his contributions to golf and the vibrant spirit he brought to Barstool Sports and the broader golf community.
For more insights into the world of golf and its personalities, visit PGA.com and explore dedicated golf content and updates.
