Louis Woodworth was born in Metropolis, Ill. As a very young child he moved with his father to East Moline and at the age of 9 began working at Short Hills Country Club with an early determination to lead and succeed. The club professional, Mr. Waldo Johnson, became instrumental in mentoring the young Woodworth, promoting him to Caddy Master at the age of 12 where Lou oversaw 75 boys at one of northern IIIinois most prestigious clubs. There he developed a lifelong passion for golf, often spending nights in the club's locker room in order to practice early the next morning.

This passion for golf led him to compete and win tournaments as a teenager, and it remained a cherished part of his life, playing courses worldwide. At 18, he received the Chick Evans Caddy Scholarship, enabling him to attend college after graduating from United Township High School in 1951—an opportunity that shaped his future success.

Lou went on to graduate from Case Western Reserve, afterwards starting a family and a successful investment business in Cleveland, Ohio.

In 1981 he became a director of the Franklin Templeton Mutual Funds, retiring in 2010.

Lou never forgot his roots. In 2019 he made a defining donation to the construction of the new East Moline Public Library. As a child, the library had been a refuge, providing warmth, safety and a place to study. The library now bears his name along with the street in front of it, leaving an impact on his community.

Lou's legacy of leadership, determination, and philanthropy will not be forgotten. He passed away as he wished, surrounded by family, overlooking the Pacific Ocean on his favorite golf course in Pebble Beach, California—a fitting farewell for a life well-lived.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Heidi Charleson, daughter, Brenda O'Toole; two grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vanhoe.com