08/20/2025
Hello, my name is Jim Tourloukis, and I am the owner of Oak Hills Golf Course in Palos Heights. I have been in the golf business for 31 years and have several stories/memories, but what happened a week ago is clearly something I will never forget.
Early morning on August 12th, one of my employees on the grounds crew punched in for work at 5 am and then collapsed a few minutes later. After calling 911, his nephew, who is also the Golf Course Superintendent, tried to revive him while waiting for the ambulance. Unfortunately, after making it to the hospital, he tragically passed away. We were all devastated by this news, and the past week has been extremely difficult.
This evening, at his wake, I noticed 60 or so black boxes next to his casket. When asked what those were, his family stated that for a long time, he would find golf balls on the course while he was working. He left them in a hidden spot in his home.
When his children went to his home after his passing, they saw the enormous amount of golf balls and found a handwritten note on top of them. It stated, “Please box four of these golf balls and hand them out to everyone who attends my funeral.” Love, Dad.
That was extremely overwhelming, and it will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, my friend. You will be missed.
