The golf industry lost one of its most respected executives over the holiday season as Robert MacNally II, former chairman and president of the Tommy Armour Golf Company, died Dec. 29, at age 71.

MacNally was president of Tommy Armour Golf from 1979-95 and chairman from 1995-97. He was co-holder of a patent for the company's Silver Scot 845s irons, said to be one of the most widely-played clubs on the PGA Tour in the early 90’s. He also was first to introduce the high-visibility yellow golf ball.

Mr. MacNally served as chairman emeritus of the National Golf Foundation and in 1997 was presented the Ernie Sabayrac Award for lifetime contribution to the golf industry by The PGA of America.

MacNally is survived by his mother, Dorothy Henrie; his step-brother, Edwin Henrie; his wife, Beth; and his four children–Robert III, Susan, Anne and William–and their families, including four grandchildren. Gifts in his memory may be made to the Chicago Marshall Square Boys and Girls Club, 2628 West Cermak Road, Chicago, Ill. 60608.