Beaver County Memories

Sponsored by St. Barnabas Beaver Meadows

Arnold Palmer

“Everyone has an Arnold Palmer story,” says lifelong Center Township Dennis Darak whose friendship with the late great golfer dates back to the 1940s.

Dennis met Arnold through his father who for 40 years was Aliquippa County Club’s golf pro. The junior Darak also had a lengthy career in golf – serving as CEO and Executive Director of the Tri-State Section of the PGA. He Dennis recalls how the celebrity made a special effort to see his father who was suffering with the late stages of lung cancer. “We seated him at Hole #1,” Dennis reflected. “But the crowd blocked his view of the tee. When Arnold learned that my father was nearby, he stopped, politely pushed through the spectators and talked with my dad. He was a genuine man.”

Dennis Darak appreciation of “Arnie” inspired him to create the Palmer Cup. He, Arnold’s brother Jerry, Oakmont’s Bob Ford and Pittsburgh Press reporter Doc Giffin honored their friend with the award and tournament annually since 1995. This year Mr. Palmer was unable to present the Palmer Cup himself. The small group, and soon the world, learned that Arnie’s health declined and led to his passing just 3 days later on September 25th

“The King” wrote a letter to Dennis Darak who was celebrated at a retirement dinner on September 28th, just 3 days after he died. His kind words were framed and read to Mr. Darak, surprising him and touching all in attendance.

Arnold Palmer will be remembered by Beaver County residents as well as admirers around the world. He was proud of his Western Pennsylvania roots and among all of his memberships, remained registered with the WPGA – Western Pennsylvania Golf Association.

The Beaver County Memories are sponsored by St. Barnabas Beaver Meadows.