Justin Riegel, the Philmont Country Club’s PGA Director of Golf, tragically lost his life earlier this week after a giant tree fell and smashed into Philmont Country Club’s pro shop and cart barn following a thunderstorm.
The course professional was helping to bring golf carts inside during the storm. “The storm blew in and everyone was rushing in, and before we knew it a tree fell,” Philmont employee Kelli Patrick told 6ABC.com.
“Justin was one the most caring individuals you could ever come across. He was that guy who would call just to see how you’re doing and make sure everything was great in your life. Justin was so excited when he told me that Kate was pregnant and they were having a baby. Unfortunately after a horrific accident at work on Wednesday he will never have the opportunity to meet his son. Justin was not just a fantastic golf professional, but he was a special person to everyone he came in contact with.”
“Justin worked as a PGA Assistant Professional at Aronimink G.C., Wilmington C.C. and Gulph Mills G.C. He earned his first PGA Head Professional position at French Creek G.C. and then moved on to Philmont C.C. as PGA Head Professional, and most recently, PGA Director of Golf. Justin was also very involved with the Philadelphia PGA Section, serving on a number of committees and as chair of the Philadelphia Assistants Organization. In 2015, he was selected as the Section PGA Assistant Golf Professional of the Year. A friend to so many of us, gone too early,” PGA Reach Philadelphia wrote in a Facebook post.
Riegel joined Philmont in 2019 as head pro.
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A GoFundMe has been set up to help support Riegel’s family.
