The annual Ralph Klaus Memorial Golf Tournament, sponsored by Ralph’s son Larry and his wife Kathy, took place last Saturday.
For many years, Ralph was very dedicated to the Big Valley community and never hesitated to volunteer his time to help make this little community what it is.
In later years, he was very involved in the Senior Centre and in the building phase of what we now enjoy. He maintained the golf course for years, keeping it to a very high standard, so it was very fitting that a tournament be held to honour and remember his efforts.
The day started off with a breakfast at the community hall, with Lloyd’s special pancakes, Lorne’s scrambled eggs and Bill’s sausage and ham.
Kent Butterfield drew up the teams and eight teams teed-off to vie for getting their names put on the commemorative plaque. Under beautiful skies, no mosquitos, and a gentle, cooling breeze, golfers couldn’t ask for a better day.
When all the scores were tallied up, it seems Kent didn’t rig the teams, as competition was close. Curt Watts, with Lynne Palmer, Bill Ridley and Sandra King, prevailed.
The golfers then all met back at the community hall for a steak and chicken barbecue supper prepared by Bill and crew.
After supper, Larry and Kathy handed out prizes and presented Curt and his team with the commemorative plaque. Oodles of hole prizes and door prizes were given out and a 50/50 draw took place that was scooped by Joan Klaus.
Larry’s cousin, Bernard, was overheard saying he bought the winner, but lamented that he probably wouldn’t see the winnings.
This golf tournament to remember Ralph is always an outstanding time and will be held again next year at the same approximate timeframe. Kathy or Larry met everyone at Hole 5, where snacks are always on the agenda. One cannot emphasize enough on how much effort and to what lengths this fine couple goes to make the tournament a success. Mark it on next year’s calendar.
Each year, Larry and Kathy donate to a worthy cause in Big Valley. This year, they chose to contribute to the building fund for the tool museum that the Historical Society is raising funds for. Many thanks go out to them for their continued support of this community. Ralph would be extremely proud to see his legacy carry on.
Big Valley is once again proud to host the annual Free-Mo model train extravaganza this Saturday and Sunday. These amazingly realistic and meticulous collections of model-train modules incorporate scenery ranging from prairies to mountains to cityscapes, almost spanning the entire arena. Bring the whole family to check out these remarkable displays.