John D. Wilson

Practicing what he had seen on television and read in golf books, John Wilson spent much of his time as a Junior Member at the Calgary Golf & Country Club developing not only his golf skills but, more importantly, the strong leadership traits that continue to define his character. From 1977 to 1986, Al Ewen, the Club Professional at the time, observed John consistently raising the bar—both in his game and in his personal goals—and knew he would become one of the golf industry’s most respected leaders. Three years later, in 1989, Ewen, a former PGA of Canada President, endorsed John’s application for Membership, stating in his letter: “John was always well-mannered, respectful of other members, and he generally conducted himself in an exemplary fashion. I have no hesitation in recommending him for membership into the PGA of Canada.” Since beginning his apprenticeship in 1989, John has ascended the ranks of Professional Golf in Canada at an impressive pace. After four seasons at Douglasdale Golf Club, he spent a year at Turner Valley before becoming Head Professional at Heritage Pointe Golf Club in 1994, and later at Lakeside Golf Club in 2014. Since 2015, John has been part of the team at the beautiful Priddis Greens Golf & Country Club. Over the past 37 years at Heritage Pointe, Lakeside, and Priddis Greens, John has continually demonstrated his strength as a player, merchandiser, and promoter of the game. Leading operations at some of the country’s finest public and private golf facilities, John and his team execute hundreds of corporate and membership events each year, earning the highest respect from peers for their exceptional service and enthusiasm. As a player, John has maintained a strong competitive presence. While studying business in the United States, he won the 1984 NCAA University of Idaho Invitational and has since recorded six professional victories in sanctioned events. Elected to the PGA of Alberta Board of Directors in 1998, John played an active role in advancing the Association through his work on the Long Range, Tournament, and Sponsorship Committees, and served two years as Zone President. In 2001, he was called upon by the Board and Membership to serve on the PGA of Canada National Board of Directors, where he dedicated five years to improving national operations and policies. John’s official title is Head Golf Professional. Unofficially, he is a leader, ambassador, teacher, mentor, co worker, volunteer, and friend. To thousands of patrons, staff, suppliers, and colleagues from coast to coast and likely beyond Canada’s borders John is the consummate golf professional. His loyalty, trust, and unwavering support for others in their personal and professional pursuits make him one of the true leaders in the Canadian golf industry. In 1998, John was recognized as both the Provincial and National Club Professional of the Year, an honour voted on by his fellow PGA of Canada Members. .