Billy Oatman Cause of Death: How the PBA Rookie of the Year Passed Away

^{Billy Oatman, the first black player to win the PBA Rookie of the Year award, died earlier this week due to complications of a stroke. He was 57 years old.}

^{A Late Bloomer in Bowling}

^{Oatman was born in Chicago in 1965 and started bowling at the age of eight. He bowled collegiately at Vincennes and Wichita State, but decided not to pursue a professional career until he was 40 years old.}

^{In 2006, he competed in the Denny’s PBA Tour Trials and earned a full-season exemption, becoming the first black player and the oldest player to do so. He also became the first black player to win the Harry Golden PBA Rookie of the Year award in 2006-07, after leading all rookies in points, earnings and match play appearances.}

^{He came close to winning a PBA Tour title, finishing as runner-up to Jason Couch at the 2007 Motel 6 Classic. He needed two strikes in the 10th frame to win, but left a 10-pin on his second shot.}

^{A Beloved Figure in the Bowling Community}

^{Oatman was known for his infectious smile, his passion for bowling and his generosity to others. He worked in his mother’s health food store before becoming a PBA bowler and was a vegetarian.}

^{He was also a mentor to many young bowlers, especially those from minority backgrounds. He inspired them to pursue their dreams and overcome the challenges they faced.}

^{He bowled four perfect 300 games in PBA competition and over 190 perfect 300 games and over 70 800 series in his career. He had one daughter named Taylor Imani, who inherited his love for bowling.}

^{Billy Oatman Cause of Death: A Tragic Loss}

^{Oatman suffered a stroke in April 2023 and was hospitalized for several weeks. He passed away on April 23, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and kindness.}

^{His death was mourned by many in the bowling world, who expressed their condolences and tributes on social media. His former rivals, friends and fans remembered him as a great bowler and an even greater person.}

^{According to PBA.com, a memorial service for Oatman will be held on Saturday, May 1, 2023, at the Leak and Sons Funeral Home in Chicago. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help his family with the funeral expenses.}