Donald A. Kotnik

Don Kotnik, an enormously talented and popular figure in Toledo golf, passed away on December 23 surrounded by loved ones. As a PGA Master Professional, he leaves behind an enduring legacy shaped by his lifelong commitment to the game and the community.

A native of Barberton, Ohio, Don was a gifted all-around athlete who played for both the Rocket football and golf teams at the University of Toledo. But it was his passion for golf that evolved into a storied career spanning over five decades, where he served as a beacon of excellence, leadership, and mentorship.

Don was the PGA professional at the Toledo Country Club for over 40 years, where he nurtured countless players and inspired future generations of golfers. He established a first-rate caddy program at TCC where he mentored numerous young people to gain a college education through the Evans Scholarship Program. A co-founder of the Toledo Junior Golf Association in 1973, Don was dedicated to developing junior golfers, instilling discipline, sportsmanship, and a lifelong love for the game.

For 17 years he was the head golf coach for the University of Toledo and known as an excellent teacher/mentor. He created a positive teaching environment where he shared his knowledge, encouraged young players, taught life skills and built meaningful friendships. His love for the Rockets only expanded when Don was inducted into the University of Toledo Hall of Fame in 1995.

In 1980, Don became the 16th person nationwide to earn the title of PGA Master Professional and in 1993 was awarded the prestigious honor of Golf Professional of the Year by the PGA of America. Don also earned a spot among Golf Magazine's Top 100 Teachers and was sought after nationwide for his instructional expertise. Locally, he became the inaugural recipient of the Burt Silverman Award, honoring his tremendous contributions to golf in Toledo. Over his career, he taught over 100 state, regional and city champions and was founder of the Northern Ohio PGA Assistants Championship. His induction into the National PGA Hall of Fame and the receipt of the Bob McNally Humanitarian Award further recognized the depth of his contributions to the game.

Above all, Don cherished his loving family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Rochelle (Saris), children Lisa, Amy, and Mike Don, and grandchildren Grace, Ben, Jackson, and Abby.

Don Kotnik’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the vibrant golf community he helped shape in Toledo. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Don Kotnik Scholarship Fund for the UT Men’s Golf Team to continue his tradition of support for education, or Hospice of Northwest Ohio, who assisted in his final days with respect and compassion.

Rest in peace, Coach. Your spirit will forever be felt on the greens and in the hearts of all those you inspired.

Friends and family are invited to visit at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Ave, Toledo, on Sunday, December 29, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., with a Scripture service taking place at 6 p.m. A memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 6149 Hill Ave, Toledo, on Monday, December 30, 2024, at 10 a.m.