We are deeply saddened to share the news that longtime Northern Nevada Golf and Nevada Golf associate, Gerry MacDonald, passed away on April 10, 2026.
Gerry was a distinguished and highly valued member of the Northern Nevada golf community. He served for many years as the lead rules official for the Northern Nevada Golf Association, where his expertise and leadership helped shape the game locally and beyond. Gerry was among an elite group of individuals who achieved a perfect score of 100 on the USGA Rules Exam—an extraordinary accomplishment that earned him recognition at the highest levels of the sport.
In acknowledgment of his knowledge and integrity, Gerry was frequently invited to serve on the USGA Rules Committee and officiate at prestigious national events. Gerry was also a proud member at The Resort at Red Hawk, where he was well known and respected among fellow members and staff.
“Gerry served as a USGA Committee Member from 2006 to 2024, and he was a proud member of the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship Rules Committee from 2006 to 2020, officiating at the championship each year, including as Referee for the final match in 2016,” said Mike Sweeney, USGA, Director, Regional Affairs-West. “His exceptional rules knowledge and ability to connect with players earned him assignments at the highest levels, including the U.S. Amateur Championship and the U.S. Senior Open. Gerry was one of the USGA’s most dedicated and reliable volunteers, consistently helping make USGA qualifiers and championships better.”
Beyond his remarkable professional contributions, Gerry will be remembered for his dedication, fairness, and the respect he showed to everyone he encountered. His presence left a lasting impression on colleagues, players, and the broader golf community.
During this difficult time, our thoughts are with his wife, Linda, as well as Gerry’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be greatly missed.
Services are currently pending, and details will be shared as they become available.
Donations in Gerry’s honor can be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (Blood Cancer United) and the Northern Nevada Junior Golf Association.
