 Beloved Haggin Oaks Golf Professional, Mentor, and Friend 1940 – 2025
It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Dick McShane, longtime Golf Professional at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex in Sacramento, California. Dick was not just a teacher of golfâhe was a true ambassador of the game, a beacon of patience and positivity, and a man whose impact on the sport will never be fully measurable. For nearly five decades, Dick devoted his life to introducing golf to others, and in doing so, changed the lives of tens of thousands.
Starting at Haggin Oaks in 1981, Dick quickly became one of the most beloved and sought-after instructors in Northern California. Through his decades-long partnership with The Learning Exchange, Dick taught small groups of beginner golfers night after night, year after year, welcoming thousands of students to the game with open arms and a kind smile. While official tallies arenât kept, those closest to the game believe Dick may have taught more golfers than any other instructor in the United Statesâestimated at more than 10,000 students. It is a legacy few, if any, will ever match.
In 1984, Dick, alongside Susan Abrams, helped start the California Eaglesâa groundbreaking program at Haggin Oaks designed for junior and adult golfers with physical and intellectual disabilities. As the first and largest Special Olympics golf program in the country, the California Eagles has introduced over 1,000 athletes to the game, with Dick leading instruction from the very beginning. His commitment to this community earned him a prestigious Community Service Award, but for Dick, it was never about recognitionâit was about giving everyone the chance to experience the joy of golf.
Dick was also a student of the game. Fascinated by the teachings of the gameâs greats, he studied under more than 75 of Golf Digestâs Top 100 Teachers, including the legendary Butch Harman, always looking to improve his own craft and better serve his students.
According to Terry Daubert, Morton Golf President âOver 40 years ago, when I started at Haggin Oaks, Dick was the person who took me under his wing to show me the ropes and help me feel comfortable. Dick will always have a special place in my heartâ.
His efforts extended well beyond the driving range. In 1992, Dick created a Singles & Couples Tournament Group, bringing camaraderie and connection to players across Northern California. He was also the founder of the Dick McShane Travel Club, organizing golf getaways to some of the regionâs finest courses and serving as a familiar, friendly face on the annual Haggin Oaks Mexico Trip for years.
Until just recently, Dick was still teaching, still playing, and still shooting his age on the courseâan inspiring feat that summed up his enduring love for the game. His teaching philosophy was simple: make golf fun, make it personal, and make it accessible to everyone. His gentle demeanor, humble wisdom, and tireless dedication helped generations of golfers not only improve their swings but fall in love with the game itself.
Dick McShaneâs presence at Haggin Oaks was a cornerstoneâhis legacy will live on in the thousands of golfers he taught, the programs he built, and the relationships he nurtured. He leaves behind not just a legacy of lessons, but a lifetime of generosity, laughter, and unforgettable moments on the green.
Rest easy, Dick. The fairways are a little quieter nowâbut your spirit will forever echo through the game you gave your life to.
We will update our blog and social media when details about any services are available.
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