FAREWELL TO DON MARZILLI

Like with many, I found about Don's passing by reading The Independent several days after his passing; and like many, I was shocked to hear more about the circumstances surrounding his passing.

Don had to be one of the most enthusiastic golfers in Gallup and a frequent sponsor of local events. Because he was a high handicapper, he loved scrambles, but meeting new people was something of a hobby for him, often signing up for a tournament as a single to join an incomplete team. No matter what kind of tournament he played, he always promised he would be the best putter on the team... and more often than not, kept his promise, he couldn't hit the ball far or straight, but he could sure use the "flat blade".

As the local PGA professional, I always appreciated his willingness to help in any way he could and of course, his permanent smile, good sense of humor and demeanor on the course. I haven't played much the last year, nor do I help with many of the local events, but I had the pleasure of shaking hands with him once more during the recent Cheerleaders tournament in August, where as usual, was a sponsor, and where as usual, his smile was contagious. Our sincere and heartfelt condolences go to all his family, extended family and friends. We will miss him as well.