The golf world mourns the loss of Southern California icon Len Kennett, PGA, who passed away peacefully on July 11 at the age of 98. A revered PGA of America Professional and a pioneering advocate for junior golf, Kennett leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, sportsmanship and mentorship.
“Mr. Kennett was a pillar of the Southern California golf community for over 70 years,” says SCPGA CEO/Executive Director Nikki Gatch, PGA. “As a PGA Professional, he exemplified integrity, dedication and an unwavering passion for the game. He was especially revered for his tireless support of junior golf, mentoring countless young players and inspiring generations.”
Kennett’s journey began humbly as a caddie at Santa Anita (California) Golf Course, but his passion and dedication elevated him through the ranks to become one of the region’s most respected PGA Professionals. After serving in the Marines and attending the University of Southern California — where he captured the 1950 Southern California Intercollegiate Championship — Kennett was elected to PGA Membership in 1953.
A proud member of the PGA of America ever since, Kennett was a respected figure within the Southern California PGA Section, where he served not only as a decorated PGA Professional, but also as a mentor and leader to countless others in the golf community.
Kennett held prominent roles at California’s Marine Memorial Golf Course, San Gabriel Country Club, Los Verdes Golf Club and Lakewood Country Club.
The Len Kennett Junior Golf Championship was founded by Len in 1955 at Lakewood. Attracting the likes of Tiger Woods, the tournament quickly became a cornerstone of SoCal Junior Golf and is still conducted to this day.
The PGA Golf Management University Program at Ferris State University is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year with an October weekend of golf and gatherings to welcome alumni back to campus in Big Rapids, Michigan.
The weekend kicks off with a round of golf at American Dunes in Grand Haven, where Ferris State alum Ian Ziska is the PGA of America Head Golf Professional, on Friday, Oct. 10. The party continues on Oct. 11 with the official 50th anniversary celebration at Katke Golf Course on Ferris State’s campus, followed by a cocktail reception and evening awards program. The weekend concludes with a round of golf at nearby Pilgrim’s Run Golf Club on Oct. 12. A large contingent of returning alumni is expected. If you’d like to join the party, log onto the event’s official site at 2025pgm50thanniversary.eventfarm.com.
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Ferris State’s PGA Golf Management University Program, PGA Magazine is spotlighting the university’s alumni in our Pro to Pro section (starting on page 50) and with our PGA Profile of Glenn Pulice (page 140), who will receive the Ferris State PGM Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award during the festivities.
