Michael John Ballo

Mike Ballo Sr., long-time PGA Head Golf Professional at Woodway Country Club and two-time champion of the Connecticut State Open, died at his home April 3, 2022 surrounded by family and friends. He was 80 years old.

Born to parents John and Florence, Mike was raised in Stamford, Connecticut, attended Stamford High School, and served in the United States Navy. Mike dedicated 55 years to Woodway Country Club of Darien, beginning as a caddy at age seven until he retired as Head Golf Professional. After leaving Woodway, Mike spent 17 years on the golf staff directing the first tee at Silvermine Golf Club in Norwalk.

Mike was inducted to the Connecticut Golf Hall of Fame in December 2021. His accomplishments were numerous. His first win was in 1955 as Caddie Champion at Woodway Country Club followed by winning the Connecticut High School Championship in 1957. In 1969 Mike won his first Connecticut Open, and then a second in 1978. He won three MET PGA Westchester Opens. He played in four US Opens, and three PGA Championships. He set numerous course records at Woodway CC (61), Hartford GC (67), and New Haven CC (66).

Mike’s contribution to the golf profession continues today because of years of mentoring to young golf professionals. Over his career every first-assistant mentored by Mike became head golf professional. “Mike made me in the business,” said Stuart Waack, Head Golf Professional Silvermine Golf Club. “Working for Mike Ballo you knew you were going to be a head golf professional. He was unselfish with his time and support. His focus was never on him, it always was on others.”

Mike dedicated 72 years of his life to the golf community as a whole, retiring from his efforts in the sport at age 77. His most noteworthy achievement, besides his playing record and contribution to the profession, is what he passed to his sons, Mike Jr. and Peter. They’ve followed their father’s footsteps in the sport of golf and are achieving their own marks of success. State Open Champions both in New York and Connecticut they benefited from Mike’s passion, steady instruction and ever presence in their lives.

If you knew Mike at all, you were lucky. His quiet way of support found a way to touch your life and be lifted.

Mike is survived by his wife Page, sons Mike Jr and Peter (Kat), daughter Michelle Bonaviso, sisters Janice Bruggerman, Sharon Winford, and brother John. He is preceded by brother Peter, daughter Jane.

Visitation will be held at Leo P. Gallagher and Son Funeral Home, Friday, April 8th 4:00pm -8:00pm.

A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at Woodway Country Club, Saturday, April 9th 11am-3:00pm

A private burial will be held at a later date.