Fans around the world are mourning the loss of golfer Arnold Palmer. Some in southeast Wisconsin had a unique connection with the legend.
The Bog golf course in Saukville proudly boasts being an Arnold Palmer signature course -- built with his design -- under his supervision in the mid-nineties.
Golf Pro Andy Runkel took the news hard.
“Last night was really an emotional night for me. I got a text early that he passed away, and I turned on Golf Channel. I watched for about 4 or 5 hours and had tears in my eyes.”
Today, its flag is at half staff, as everyone here, including owner Mike Hammes, mourns.
“It’s a tough day. It’s sad. You’re losing one of the best, if not the best ambassadors of golf.”
Playing 18 here today ended up having extra special meaning for two members, both of whom had the pleasure of meeting Palmer in person.
Tom Gannon of Sheboygan said, “He was just something else, very friendly, very nice, just a nice guy.”
Mequon’s Dick Sheridan agrees: “He’s just a wonderful person. He really made you feel important and that he enjoyed being with you.”
