The Rosebud Lions are keeping the memory of one of its most dedicated community members alive.
This coming Monday, Akokinskway will be the site for the annual Ray Zachariassen Memorial Golf Tournament. This will be the eighth year of the tournament.
The tournament was created in honour of Ray Zachariassen, a long time member of the Rosebud community. Zachariassen died in 2005 from a combination of lung and bone cancer.
Zachariassen and his family moved near Rosebud in 1964. He lived there for the remainder of his life. He started off farming, but soon became deeply involved in helping his newfound community and joined the local Lions Club in the late 1960’s. Later, he served 13 and a half years as a councillor for Wheatland County, and six years as Reeve.
However, what many remember most about him was his devotion to the sport of golf.
“It feels good to have the tournament keep going,” said Richard Zachariassen, Ray’s son. “He loved the sport. He probably golfed five to eight times a week during his last couple years.”
“He was always an avid golfer and he was a big part of getting Akokiniskway up and running. He was always down there golfing. He was also a devoted community member. Between his love of golf and his participation in the Lions, that’s how it came about,” said Peter Lauridsen, who is helping organize the event.
For the past several years the Rosebud Lions have been organizing the tournament. The money raised goes towards various projects in the community. The money raised this year has not been earmarked as of yet.
“The money we raise goes towards Rosebud community project. For example, a couple years ago we donated the money to help finish the addition on the Rosebud Centennial Museum. We also made a contribution to assist in completing the new fire hall. Like any small town, there’s always projects needing done.” said Lauridsen.
The tournament is 18 holes, complete with hole prizes, entertainment, auctions, and supper. The day opens with a brunch starting at 11 a.m. and the tournament begins at 1 p.m. After the golf is done, golfers are invited to supper at the Rosebud Community Hall.
Prizes and auction items were donated from individuals and businesses from Rosebud and surrounding communities.
“We get so much support from surrounding communities. We’re very grateful for the help we get,” said Lauridsen.
“It’s a great opportunity for people in the community to get together, visit, have a good time, and support a great cause,” said Lauridsen.
