11/14/2025
To Our Camelot Friends and Family,
30 Years Ago…my dad, Lee Merkel, asked me to be his partner at Camelot.
I said, “No, but thank you for the incredible offer. I am about to start a family and I live almost an hour away.”
He tried again — it’s a 5–7 year plan?
“No, but thank you.”
How about 9am to 3pm, Monday thru Friday?
“No, but thank you.”
Thursdays off?
“I am sorry, Dad, it’s still a no”
Then he said, “You could just run the beverage cart.”
And that’s when I said, “Well… that I can do!”
And just like that, Camelot became a family adventure.
Fast forward to today, and this note comes with a mix of emotions — excitement, nostalgia, and a touch of disbelief. Some of you may have already heard the rumors… and yes, it’s true.
Camelot is being sold, with closing date of January 2, 2026.
The Bonlender family — Joe, Chris, Brett and Sarah — will become the proud new owners, and the course will take on a new name: The Fields of Clover Hill.
I know — it’ll be strange at first not to call it Camelot! But it makes perfect sense, since the Bonlenders also own Clover Hill Dairy in Campbellsport.
They’re a wonderful, community-minded family. It’s a big change, but we couldn’t ask for better people to carry on Camelot’s legacy. They’re already dreaming big — planting trees, planning updates, and bringing fresh energy to the course.
Pat, Adam, Dan, Al and I along with most of our amazing staff will also be staying on, so you’ll still see familiar faces — plus a few new ones! Some of you have already met Derick, the new General Manager for The Fields of Clover Hill. He’s been with us since July and has been learning the ropes quickly.
For those wondering about Traditions Golf, it’ll now include just our two “brother” courses — West Bend Lakes and Horicon Hills.
Memberships will still be honored between those two courses. The Fields of Clover Hill will be offering a reciprocal rate for members who want to play there. Therefore, your golf adventures continue!
A few more notes before we wrap up:
• All passes and gift cards expire at the end of 2025. There’s still plenty of great golf and merchandise left
• And yes — grab your Camelot gear while you can… it’s officially a collector’s item!
Camelot has been so much more than a business to us; it’s been home. The laughter, friendships, and memories we’ve shared over the years mean more than words can say. We will forever be grateful of your support, your loyalty, and the memories we’ve made together.
So here’s to the next chapter — and to all of you who’ve been part of our story.
With gratitude, and a big cheer to the next chapter,
Laura Beaudoin & Lee Merkel
PS. I ran the beverage cart less than 10 shifts!