Makena White Cause of Death: A Tribute to a Life Gone Too Soon

The golf world and beyond was struck by profound sadness in late September 2025 upon the news that Makena White, the beloved girlfriend of PGA Tour golfer Jake Knapp, had passed away suddenly. She was only 28 years old. The heartbreaking announcement, made by a close friend on White’s own Instagram account, spoke of a woman with a “huge heart” who was “deeply missed by her Dad, her family, her friends”. As fans and loved ones seek answers, the focus has rightly remained on celebrating her vibrant spirit and the incredible impact she had in her short life. This article honors the memory of Makena White, exploring her life, her relationship with Jake Knapp, and the legacy she leaves behind.

Remembering Makena White: A Life of Brilliance and Love

Makena White was much more than the partner of a professional athlete. She was a remarkable individual whose own accomplishments and character left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Hailing from Ottawa, Canada, she was an academic achiever, graduating from McMaster University in 2019 with dual degrees in Communications and Software Engineering.

She channeled her intellect into a meaningful career, working in surgical sales where she was an on-site representative providing vital equipment for vascular and cardiac surgeons. Described by friends as having a “rare way of making you feel special,” White’s energy was infectious. Her social media bio revealed a passion for her work, calling herself a “vascular and cardio surgery nerd”. This professional dedication was matched by deep personal commitments, especially to her family. Her mother, Crystal, had been a patient at the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and she passed away in April 2022. This personal experience shaped Makena’s compassionate outlook on life.

A Love Story in the Spotlight: Makena and Jake Knapp

Makena White and Jake Knapp began their relationship in August 2023. While they initially kept their romance private, it burst into the public eye in February 2024 after Knapp’s dramatic first PGA Tour victory at the Mexico Open. A video of the couple sharing an emotional hug on the 18th green after his win quickly went viral, endearing them to golf fans worldwide.

White quickly became a familiar and supportive presence at tournaments, often seen cheering Knapp on from the sidelines. In a heartfelt Instagram post from August 11, 2025—which now stands as a poignant final public message—she celebrated their two-year anniversary. She wrote, “Year 2 of first fairway hugs & watching you live out your dreams… I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud”. Knapp responded with simple red heart emojis, a quiet testament to their bond. Their partnership was clearly one of mutual admiration and support, a cornerstone in the high-pressure world of professional sports.

The Circumstances Surrounding Her Passing

The news of Makena White’s death was shared on September 26, 2025. A close friend posted a statement on White’s Instagram, revealing that she had “passed away earlier this week”. The announcement sent waves of grief through the golf community, coinciding as it did with the opening of the prestigious Ryder Cup.

A key question on many minds is the specific Makena White cause of death. As of now, no official cause of death has been publicly released. The family has requested privacy as they navigate this unimaginably difficult time, and their wishes deserve the utmost respect.

It is noteworthy, however, that in the months before her passing, White had openly discussed her health on social media. In June 2025, she posted about having three scheduled surgeries—two cardiac and one vascular—and shared a photo from a hospital bed. In another post, she hinted at a condition called tachycardia, after her Apple Watch showed a heart rate of 133 beats per minute. These posts provide personal context but do not clarify the direct cause of her tragic and sudden death.

Table: Makena White Timeline of Events

Jake Knapp Breaks His Silence

In the hours after the public announcement, Jake Knapp released his first statement to PEOPLE magazine. He remembered Makena as a profoundly thoughtful and selfless person. “We shared so many unforgettable memories together and now that she’s no longer with us, it’s a tough reality to comprehend,” Knapp shared. He concluded by asking for privacy and respect for White’s family and friends as they process the loss. His words painted a picture of a man grappling with a profound loss, honoring the woman who had been such a source of joy in his life.

A Community in Mourning: Public Tributes Pour In

The outpouring of grief following Makena White’s death highlighted how many lives she touched. From close friends to figures in the golf world, tributes celebrated her vibrant spirit. CBS Sports reporter Amanda Balionis wrote, “Getting to know Makena was one of my favorite parts of this last year… I will miss her light… it touched so many”. Similarly, golf podcaster Dan Rapoport simply stated, “What a light she was”. These reflections consistently echoed the themes of joy, warmth, and an undeniable light that Makena White brought into every room.

Honoring Makena White’s Legacy

In the Instagram post announcing her passing, friends suggested a powerful way to honor Makena White’s memory: through donations to two charitable causes close to her heart:

• The Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic: This was the same clinic where her mother received treatment, making the choice deeply personal.
• The Griffin Bell Endowment Fund: This fund was established in memory of a child who passed away from cancer in 2024.

This request transforms a moment of tragedy into an opportunity for positive impact, ensuring that Makena’s legacy of care and compassion continues to help others. It is a testament to the generous spirit that defined her life.

Conclusion

The sudden death of Makena White at the age of 28 is a heartbreaking loss. While the specific cause of her death remains private, her life is what truly deserves public attention. She is remembered as a brilliant, compassionate, and joyful young woman who supported her partner Jake Knapp with unwavering love and built a life of purpose and connection. As the golf world and her loved ones mourn, the best way to honor Makena White is to respect the family’s request for privacy, celebrate the beautiful moments she shared, and support the charitable causes that continue her legacy of kindness. Her story reminds us all to cherish every moment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Makena White

1. How did Makena White die?

As of now, the official cause of Makena White’s death has not been publicly disclosed. Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and their wishes should be respected.

2. What was Makena White’s profession?

Makena White worked in the medical technology sector. She was an on-site representative for a surgical equipment company, providing support for vascular and cardiac surgeons.

3. How did Makena White and Jake Knapp meet?

While the exact details of their first meeting are private, Makena White and PGA golfer Jake Knapp began dating in August 2023. Their relationship became public in February 2024 after Knapp’s victory at the Mexico Open.

4. What were Makena White’s last words to Jake Knapp?

Her last Instagram post, on August 11, 2025, was a tribute to Knapp. She wrote, “I looooove you sweet boy, you make it so dang easy to be proud,” expressing her support and excitement for their future together.

5. How can I honor Makena White’s memory?

Following the wishes of her friends and family, you can honor Makena White by making a donation in her name to the Bruyère Brain Health & Memory Clinic or the Griffin Bell Endowment Fund.

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