Hello Everyone,
Since I became President back in 2014, I don’t think I have faced such a difficult task as writing about our past President Michael Behr. Allow me to share some of my own personal memories of Michael.
As we all know Michael was a very private individual but he was also a very personable man once he got to know you. He was funny and genuinely very very sharp with his humour and observations on life. I enjoyed talking to him immensely and I was definitely enriched afterwards.
When I succeeded Michael as president he was extremely helpful to me with advice and guidance but he also said “all you can do is be yourself, after all that’s all anyone can do.” Wise words indeed.
In business I think you could describe him as an entrepreneur, I didn’t know him during his working life but obviously he was a very successful man and he used these skills and experience to assist our Golf Club in so many ways.
Michael dearly loved our Club and I remember how proud he was when he became Club Captain, so proud following his Father in the role and then went on to be President, such a great servant to the club. For such a private man, Michael was an great entertainer. Who can forget his ability to command the English language in several memorable speeches at Dinner and Dances in particular? Those long words, delivered in such a clever way resulting in a standing ovation from those in attendance. Michael’s dedication to perfect, learn and deliver those speeches left me in awe.
For those who can remember when he first turned up with Little Captain, it was extraordinary and brought much laughter, a moment never to be forgotten. This demonstrated the mischievous side of Michael to us all. Another memorable talent was Michael’s inimitable style of dancing, a sight that will stay with me forever. Those disco nights will never be the same again!
This leads me on to the work that Michael did being a member of the social committee and its Treasurer. He would always fulfil any task with good humour whether it was collecting money at events like the golf week BBQ or for Dinner & Dance tickets you name it, he was an expert.
Michael’s fund raising for charity was something he dedicated his life to and he mastered this to a high level which benefitted various past Captain’s charities. I feel sure that Michael probably did a lot more than we know, a great servant to people’s lives I’m sure. Only this past Christmas we saw another aspect of Michael and his talent when he became the author of a children’s story book. Who saw that coming? I certainly didn’t. I know I will never forget the children at the Club’s Christmas party enthralled with Michael’s storytelling, my granddaughter being one of them, brilliant.
The 14th June was a very sad day for us all when we lost such a true gentleman. It makes you realise how fragile we all are and how things can change so quickly.
I am grateful and proud to have known Michael. I know I will miss him, just like you will too.
John.
Download or read below:
July 19