John Toepel, R.I.P.

It is with a heavy heart that I report the unexpected passing of John Toepel, Jr., president of Concept Golf. John and his wife Linda lived in Wake Forest, North Carolina.

When I decided in mid-2001 to strike out on my own and form Pioneer Strategies, John and his firm became my first client. I worked with his company over the course of several years, and I enjoyed keeping in touch with John over the past five years. He became more than a client — he was a friend. John was one of my biggest cheerleaders as I formed and built Pioneer Strategies, and he will be missed.

Below is John’s obituary from the March 22, 2007 edition of The News & Observer:

John Allen Toepel Jr.

John Allen Toepel, Jr., 62, of 5341 Mill Dam Road died Tuesday, March 20, 2007 at his home. He was born in Dane County WI son of the late John Allen Toepel, Sr. and Doris Martell Toepel.

John was a former PGA Tour Professional and most recently the owner of Concept Golf. He will be best remembered, however, as a loving husband and father.

A memorial service honoring his life will be held 1:30 Friday afternoon March 23, 2007 in the chapel of Bright Funeral Home.

Mr. Toepel is survived by wife, Linda Toepel; daughters, Megan and Andrea.

In lieu of flowers the family would like to create the “John A. Toepel Foundation for Young Golfers”. Please make checks payable to Linda Toepel, 5341 Mill Dam Rd. Wake Forest, NC 27587.

Friends may visit with the family immediately following the service at Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 405 South Main St. Wake Forest, NC 27587. (919-556-5811)