Stephen John Tobash

Passed away on August 5, 2021 peacefully at his home with his family at his side. Steve was the longtime PGA Professional at Army Navy CC (for 40 years!), retiring in 2001. Steve is survived by his wife of 65 years, Alma, children Lillie Tobash and Mike Knapp, Leigh Sherwood and husband Clayton, Steve Tobash, Jr and wife Ruth, and Donatilla, and grandchildren Edward and Maria Sherwood.

Steve was the sixth of nine children born to Peter and Anna Tobash. He was raised in Schuylkill Haven, PA where he attended and graduated from the public school system. Steve developed a love for golf early in life, first as a caddy and later working at a driving range. He turned professional at 18. After apprenticeships in Florida and Baltimore, he enlisted in the Army and was assigned to Ft. Meade. The Army quickly recognized his golf talent and placed him in charge of golf operations (at the age of 20!). He was elected to PGA membership in October 1954. After his discharge from the Army, he remained at Ft. Meade as the golf professional until 1959 and then became the head professional at Chartwell CC in 1960 for one year. In 1961, he was selected as the PGA Head Professional as Army Navy CC, where he stayed until his retirement 40 years later.

At Army Navy, Steve developed and maintained a people-oriented operation that served nearly three thousand golf members. All who appeared on the two campuses and 54 holes of ANCC were guaranteed to be greeted by Steve with a big smile and “Welcome to Army Navy.” He was also an excellent mentor for young aspiring golf professionals. Many future head professionals got their start with Steve and went on to prestigious clubs.

Steve hosted several U.S. Presidents (from Eisenhower to Clinton) at ANCC, as it is only about 10 minutes from the White House. However, Steve received his most pleasure from the numerous charity events he hosted, expanded the ladies golf program, developed an extensive Junior Golf program, and hosting Special Olympics events at the club.

After retirement, Steve and Alma traveled quite extensively including many cruises with his family. He also continued to play golf with his friends, the Follies, at Army Navy, and organized the family’s annual golf tournament.

A mass will be held at St. Anthony's at 3305 Glen Carlyn Rd. Falls Church VA 22041 on Sept. 28th at 10:00am. We kindly request a face covering be worn while inside the church. Lunch to follow at Army Navy Country Club, Arlington on the rooftop terrace. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Ronald McDonald House of Northern Virginia or Annandale Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Co. Station 8, Unit 408. Steve will be interred at Arlington Cemetery at a later date.