Bartlett Hills Golf Club manager retiring after more than three decades

1,320,000.

That's the approximate number of golfers who have passed through a Bartlett course under the helm of Bob Gavelek.

The general manager is retiring after first joining the village-owned Bartlett Hills Golf Club as a pro in 1981.

"In July, August, sometimes you get a little tired. You get a little worn out," Gavelek said. "But every morning I walk in, and the first thing I see is the golf course, and I think to myself 'That's my office.'

"So I've been very, very fortunate."

Village officials this week applauded Gavelek's tenure during his last appearance at a village board meeting. In his last year, Bartlett Hills appears to be heading to a modest budget surplus after struggling with shortfalls.

Mayor Kevin Wallace noted Gavelek's role in bringing Special Olympics tournaments to the 18-hole course.

Trustee T.L. Arends called Gavelek helpful and kind.

And Trustee Greg Martin had to ask: Will his game improve in retirement?

"It's not very good right now," he said smiling.