02/08/2026
Kevin Koelling, a friend and Esmeralda Golf Course employee passed away this past week. Words cannot adequately express how I feel at this time, but not only does he deserve to be remembered, but he has earned it. I wanted to share my thoughts a few days ago, but I wanted to make sure his family members were contacted first.
I have had the privilege to know and work with Kevin for the past nine years at Esmeralda Golf Course. When he first at Esmeralda Golf Course he had a long ponytail and reminded me of a mellow but happy hippie from the 60’s. I quickly learned Kevin was one of the most genuine individuals that I have ever known, and I feel this is the reason he was so well liked by everyone. When he showed interest, concern or love towards someone, you knew it came from a place of authenticity and it was never questioned.
His love for the game of golf game also showed his character, as he carried a honest and accurate golf handicap. He absolutely had a drive and a passion for the game and loved the competition as much as the social aspect of the game. He was very competitive and wanted to win as badly as anyone, but also played the game in a way that showed true sportsmanship. I never tired and always looked forward to playing with him. His personal characteristics and his golf game completely aligned with one another. It was hard to know if he was having a good or bad day, he was calm and steady with his emotions. I’m not saying he never got upset, but I witnessed that he didn’t carry the bad shots with him hole after hole. If something good or bad happened you didn’t hear about it for the rest of the year. He would mention it and then move on and showed a genuine interest in how each person in the group did that round.
Kevin was an amazing employee, completely loyal, dedicated and a team player. He was a great mentor for the new employees and was an excellent example to those that worked with him. He provided customer service with honesty and integrity. He absolutely loved Esmeralda Golf Course and wanted it treated with respect. He truly was one of a kind.
Some of my favorite memories of Kevin include him planning, organizing and playing in our annual staff golf trip each year. He would pick the golf destination, vacation rental and courses each year, for which I was grateful. These trips were a success because of his efforts. He chose Tuscon this year, and we missed him greatly this week.
I could continue to write about the many good qualities that he possessed and the memories I have but for now I hope the small amount I have written will honor him. I know that I am a better person today because I had the opportunity to learn and associate with Kevin Koelling. He was my friend and I will miss him and look forward to a time when I will see and associate with him again. Until then, rest in peace my friend.
Rob Sanders
Head Golf Professional
