Golfing Community Mourns Passing of Local Pro

For John Hall, golf was both a vocation and his avocation.

The Rossmoor native and PGA member, spent his much of his life on the green, working his way up to Head Professional at the Old Ranch Country Club before moving over to the Navy Golf Course where he was recently promoted to assistant manager.

Right up until his passing Oct. 17, the 51-year-old PGA member was a fixture in local golfing circles. This week, the community will pay tribute to his life and legacy. There will be a memorial service for Hall Tuesday at the Navy Golf Course Seal Beach from 3-6 p.m. and on Wednesday at Old Ranch Country Club from 4-6 p.m.

Hall grew up in Rossmoor, attending local schools. He was 15-year’s old when he began his career in the cart department at the country club.

“He just loved the game, and you have to love it because you’re not going to make a lot of money doing it,” said Bob Silver, PGA member and former Head Golf Professional of the Old Ranch Country Club.

Two become a PGA club professional, Hall had to attend two business schools, and pass playing ability tests and an oral exam, said Silver.

“He had opportunities to go outside the business, but he stayed in the business because he loved it.

And in turn, “Hall was always very well-liked by the club members,” said Silver.

The PGA Southern California website posted a tribute to Hall, noting “To know John was to love him, and your were lucky to call him friend. John loved his family and his favorite thing in life was talking about them. John will be missed by many, many people. Rest easy old friend, you were one of the great ones.”

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