Thomas Gerald Reese
November 7, 1936 - January 20, 2026
“Let’s play a little golf.” — Tom Reese
A Life of Resilience and Professional Passion
Thomas (Tommy) Reese, a beloved figure in the golf community and a man of extraordinary strength, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, at the age of 89. Surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments, Tom left behind a legacy defined by his keen wit, legendary sense of humor, and a lifelong refusal to let physical challenges define him.
Born in Salt Lake City on November 7, 1936, to Lynn and Julia Reese, Tom was the middle of three children. His resilience was forged early; at age four, he contracted polio and spent significant time at Shriners Children’s Hospital. Despite doctors’ initial doubts regarding his ability to walk again, Tom beat the odds with the same determination and dry humor that would later characterize his life.
He graduated from East High School in 1955 and turned his love for golf into a distinguished career. After serving as an assistant pro under Dick Kramer at Bonneville Golf Course, Tom became the first head pro at Glendale Golf Course when it opened in 1973. He served the Glendale community until his retirement in 2000 and was honored as the Utah PGA Teacher of the Year in 1992.
A “People Person” in Every Sense
To his daughters, Tom seemed famous; everywhere they went, even on out-of-state vacations, he ran into someone he knew. This magnetic personality—fueled by his charisma and a joke for every occasion—made him a favorite among golfers from all walks of life. Outside the clubhouse, Tom was a history buff with a particular interest in WWII, a devoted football fan, and a regular at his weekly poker game.
In his later years, Tom faced the challenges of post-polio syndrome. Even as he lost the ability to walk, he displayed incredible courage, visiting the Steiner Aquatic Center several times a week to swim and enjoy the sauna until he became wheelchair-bound.
Family and Legacy
Tom is survived by his wife of 63 years, Marcia; his brother, Lynn; and his three daughters, Sydney (Jim), Kimberli, and Tracy. He leaves behind five grandchildren—Ashley, Matthew, Meghan (Adrian), Kelsea, and Kyle—and his great-granddaughter, Madison, all of whom cherish memories of their “silly grandpa”.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lynn and Julia; his “kid” sister, Judy Patten; his brother-in-law, Warren Patten; and many cherished friends. Tom also maintained a lifelong daily bond with his siblings, a testament to the value he placed on family.
Celebration of Life In honor of Tom’s vibrant spirit a celebration of life will be held this spring.
In Loving Memory
Marcia, so sorry for your loss. I grew up with Tom and Lynn, Tom was an inspiration to all of us who knew his background I can’t remember him ever complaining about anything, except when I beat him at golf, that wasn’t very often. Please let me know if I can help in anyway .
I will always remember his enthusiasm when watching a riveting football game with me. That was one of my great joys with dad, also his larger-than-life personality. I will truly miss you daddy!
At 23, when I got my first Head Professional position at the Copper Golf Club, the first person I reached out to was Tom. He couldn't have been a more valuable resource and mentor. I left with two things - a desire to work hard and have fun along the way. His passion and enthusiasm were contagious and inspirational and lives on. Oh, and let's not forget his sometimes devilish sense of humor almost always at his own expense. Genuinely a life well lived and a person not soon forgotten.
It’s taken me a bit to come up with words that can describe what an amazing human you were Grandpa. I grew up idolizing you, I’ll always remember and cherish summers at Glendale golf course, you taught me to golf, helped me earn some money as a kid, to young to have any sort of job. Every one who came into contact with you was infected by your charm and charismatic nature. Your jokes, always in a Posative mood no mater what was going on in your life. You were a celebrity to me. We couldn’t go anywhere without somebody recognizing, and coming up to us, mid dinner at restaurant, or wherever it was. You were truly a hero to me and inspirational. I hope you are playing the big coarse in the sky, with my pops , and my other grandpa Dennis. I love you. Thank you for everything you did for me!!!
Grandpa i miss you so much. Im devastated. I just want to hold you one last time. I still remember watching who wants to be a millionaire and guess together and try and solve the in words of you grandpa " mystery" You will be missed and I cherish the memories with you i got to create. Rest in peace my handsome grandpa. You will always be on my mind. I will see you again one day.
Tommy, You made everyone you met feel like the most important person in the world. My heart goes out to Marsha, your daughters, and grandkids
Tommy was one of my favorite cousins. I always enjoyed our time together.
One of the nicest most kind people. He was truly an ambassador for golf and goodness.
I miss Tom so much and saddened by his passing. It was fun getting to know him over these last few years. He had a way of always making others feel special. That was his “ Super Power”! I will miss him as my neighbor and friend. I know he is at peace and no longer in pain. Rest well my friend🏌🏼♂️
Tommy, it has been a complete pleasure having you as my Father In-Law... never a dull moment and plenty of Laughter whenever you were near. I am truly grateful for the time we were able to spend with you recently... I know your talking Boxing and Golf with my Dad and reminiscing of the amazing Life you made possible. Love you Tommy Love your Son Jim
I’m deeply saddened to hear of Tommys passing. He was truly a great man and friend. I owe him so so much. He treated everyone with respect and kindness. He treated me like family. Many fond memories working for him at Glendale golf course. I will be attending his celebration of life to give my respects to his wife and children.
In Loving Memory
