In memory of Jim Collins

It is with profound sadness to have learned of the passing of Jim Collins, the beloved golf professional at St. Charles Country Club for 37 remarkable years. Jim passed away the evening of September 10th, at the age of 86 years. 

Jim became the Head professional at St. Charles in 1961 and retired in 1997. For nearly four decades Jim dedicated his life to St. Charles. Teaching, coaching, operating the Pro Shop and most of all, making the members at St. Charles feel special each and every day. His unwavering commitment to the Club, coupled with his kindness, patience, and infectious love for the game, made an indelible impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Throughout his career, Jim has been a 3-time winner of the Manitoba Zone Championship (’65, ’77, ’78), a 5-time winner of the Manitoba Zone Seniors’ Championship (’89, ’90, ’91, ’94, ’00), and in 1980 Jim was the PGA Club Professional Champion of Canada.

Internationally, Jim has won 8 other Championships including the Bermuda Beefeater Championship, the Royal Oak Seniors Championship, and the Lake Nona Senior Invitational Championship.

In 1985, Jim was selected as a Rules Instructor and Member of the Golf Canada (formerly RCGA) Rules Advisory Committee. Jim was recognized and inducted into the Manitoba Golf Hall of Fame in 2007 and the PGA of Canada Hall of Fame in 2019.

Jim remained a fixture at the Club as he was awarded an honorary membership at St. Charles upon his retirement and active at the Club until his passing. He remained passionate about St. Charles and the game of golf, shooting his age too many times to count.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jim’s wife Lucette, sons Glenn and James, and their families during this difficult time.

(courtesy PGA of Manitoba)