Raymond Lees, a PGA Honorary Member who played a major role in growing the game in Norway and was the nephew of four-time Great Britain Ryder Cup player Arthur Lees, has passed away at the age of 86.
Arthur, the winner of the 1939 Irish Open, was also the professional at Sunningdale, and his younger brothers Walter and Harold were club pros.
The former served Shipley Golf Club, the latter, Dore and Totley, Sheffield, where Raymond, under Harold’s watchful eyes, learned his trade and was elected to PGA Membership in 1958.
He remained there for six years until, responding to an advertisement for the golf pro’s role at Stavanger Golf Club, Norway, he headed across the North Sea. The initial engagement was for a season, but Raymond ended up staying for almost four decades and in doing so played an essential part in the club’s growth.
Newly opened and with fewer than 200 members when Raymond arrived, that number had increased almost tenfold by the time he retired.
“His pro-shop was more than a store,” recalled Steinar Fløisvik, the club’s former chairman. “It was an important hub for the members where they came to meet not just buy.
“It was also Raymond's arena for spreading joy, and his ability to remember names and faces helped make each member feel seen and welcome.”
Similarly, Raymond’s expertise in coaching players of all ages and abilities was a key factor in the club thriving.
“Raymond was a master at adapting to all levels,” added Fløisvik. “From junior players with clubs taller than themselves to more experienced ones, they all received his attention.
"He treated everyone equally - whether they were ship owners or beginners. And his distinctive form of humour, and his patience in teaching made him loved and respected. He helped build the club's reputation.”
Having retired in 2003, Raymond maintained his connection with Norway for another six years by coaching at Fana Golf Club.
Meanwhile, the truncated golf season in Norway due to the cold climate enabled Raymond to return home during the winter and help run the Pinegrove Country Club, a Sheffield venue he part owned and where he met Debbie, his wife of 29 years.
Raymond is survived by Debbie, his son Jamie, daughter Charley, stepson Cameron, stepdaughter Beth, and five grandchildren. The PGA extends heartfelt condolences to them on their loss.
