As we are gathered here to pay our respects to Ann Prinzevalle, I think it would be appropriate to recall some of the fond memories from days gone by. Ann and Evelyn Zola were co-founders of the Midwest Deaf Ladies Golf Association back in the 60s. As a matter of fact it was about 45 years ago.

 

   I'll never forget the time I was invited to play in the very first tournament. I think there were 5 of us who came to compete. Billie Moehle, Grendeau, Haroldson, Evelyn, Ann and I.  BIG FIELD, eh?  Anyway, at the registration desk I put down that my scores are usually in the 80's. . . . so they put it down that I shoot in the 80's for 9 holes, since it was a 9 hole tournament.... I said "No. wait a minute, that's what I shoot for 18 holes."  Well, they didn't believe me and sent me out to play a round of golf with their husbands. As it was, I think I shot 40 for nine holes.... When we showed them the scorecard, they simply laughed and shook their heads in disbelief.

 

  In the first round of the tournament, I was paired with Ann and Evelyn, on one hole Evelyn found herself in a sand trap. As I stood by, she kept trying to get out of the trap. She must have taken 5 strokes trying to get out of that trap. After her 6th try, I went up to her and said, Evelyn, you know u can always declare a ball unplayable, take a penalty stroke and take relief according to the Rules of Golf"  She didn't know anything about it and was pleasantly surprised to find out that there are rules for the game of golf and thus the Rulings Committee was formed. On another hole Ann kept trying to hit the ball towards the green and she kept whiffing it (missing the ball after making a swing).  I went up to her and said, "You have to count all those whiffs"  She said "What??? I didn't know golf could be so hard and so cruel"  We ALL LAUGHED TOGETHER. . .That's what made it so much fun. We were in our infancy and we were trying to establish a legitimate golf tournament for all of us...

 

  I had the privilege of being President of this group for 7 years with LINDA NELSON being Secretary. The tournament grew to about  40 members with an 18 hole group and 9 hole group having been formed it was wonderful to see how this marvelous organization grew over the years, thanks to Ann and Evelyn's efforts.

 

  Where would we be without the foresight and vision of Ann and Evelyn???  Here we are, enjoying each other's company, while paying our respects to a woman who cared so much. We never would have even known each other if it were not for having the opportunity to compete in golf tournaments and to find new friends.  We are all grateful to Ann and we send her off with fond thoughts and memories.

 

  Thank you so very much, Ann (point to the sky)