This one will sting for many people. Teri was as kind as she was brilliant. Generous with her time and knowledge, and respected by all.
— Flagstick.com Golf 🇨🇦⛳️ (@Flagstick) January 14, 2025
Sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of crossing paths with her. https://t.co/NzGgwSbM4m
The Canadian golf community is mourning the loss of Teri Yamada, a beloved and highly respected figure, who passed away on January 8, 2025. Her passing has left a significant void in the golf industry, where she played an integral role over an illustrious 40-year career.
Born on April 23, 1958, Teri Yamada’s journey in golf was nothing short of remarkable. She dedicated her life to building, supporting, and shaping the sport both at a grassroots and institutional level. Her career spanned decades, solidifying her as an influential leader in Canadian golf.
Yamada’s contributions extended to a variety of notable roles, including her tenure as the Executive Secretary of the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), now rebranded as Golf Canada.
Her work was pivotal during her service with the Canadian Turfgrass Research Foundation (CTRF) in the 1990s and early 2000s, where she helped to bolster research and support for sustainable golf course management. Her legacy continues to resonate across many sectors of the sport.
At the time of her passing, Yamada was actively involved as a member of the Golf Canada Board, demonstrating her continued passion and commitment to the game.
Her presence and influence molded many aspects of Canadian golf, from promoting youth participation to nurturing relationships within the golf community.
Tributes from Golf Ontario
In a heartfelt message, Golf Ontario expressed profound sadness over her passing. Yamada was hailed as a cherished colleague, a leader, and a trailblazer whose steadfast contributions left an indelible mark on the sport.
Golf Ontario is encouraging the community to honor her memory by reflecting on her immense influence and dedication.
As a way to pay tribute, Golf Ontario and other organizations invite friends, family, and colleagues to share their memories of Teri Yamada.
A memorial service has been coordinated, and attendees can offer condolences, photos, and personal stories through the funeral home’s dedicated platform. This collaborative effort allows her legacy to be celebrated and remembered by those whose lives she touched.
The golf community is invited to celebrate Teri Yamada’s enduring contributions by sharing their stories and honoring her memory. If you’d like to stay updated on the latest golf news and updates, subscribe to the newsletter of My Golf Essentials.
