Remembering golf icon Mike Dowaliby

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Whitefish Lake Golf Club and the community of Whitefish lost a true icon with the passing of long time Golf Professional Mike Dowaliby. Mr. D changed the culture of Whitefish Lake Golf Club when he arrived in the 1970s and helped shape the future of our successful organization even after his long career as Head Professional. The nationally recognized Whitefish Junior Golf Program was Mike’s dream and the result of his efforts and dedication.

He was the consummate Golf Professional in every regard; a welcoming face, friendly smile, warm handshake, patient teacher, exceptionally kind demeanor, advocate for juniors, active participant in the Golf Professional organization, coach, Hall of Fame member at WLGC and the PGA as well as a true friend to everyone that knew him. Mike had the uncanny ability to remember nearly everyone that played golf in Whitefish even when he couldn’t find his car keys at the end of the day. He made everyone around him a better person just by being his always supportive self and a great encourager.

Mr. Dowaliby never stopped giving his energy and resources to the game that he loved his community and his Church. His fellow Golf Professionals, without exception, had nothing but the highest praise for Mike and likewise recognized his dedication and passion for the game of Golf.

All of us at WLGC will miss having Mike Dowaliby’s physical presence around the golf course, but also know that his hands touched everything that exists at the club and he will forever be a part of that heritage and operation. We would not have become what we are without his influence and vision. While our hearts are saddened with his passing, our hearts are larger just by having known Mike.

New Practice Green Under Construction

The renovation of the North Course Practice green is well underway this week with the ultimate goal of having it completed in three weeks or less. The new green will be twice the size of the old one and will enhance the entrance to the course in process. Adding lighting to the perimeter will also benefit all visitors to the club whether golfer, shopper or diner.