MEL CHAUFTY was born March 1, 1946, and died Jan. 16, 2010, after an 18-month battle with cancer.

Mel was a resident of Green Valley and was formerly of McMinnville, Ore.

He is survived by Lynda Chaufty, his wife of 35 years; and their five children Robert, Erik, Suzi, Judi and Patrick; as well as five granddaughters.

Prior to his cancer, Mel was a golf pro at San Ignacio Golf Course in Green Valley. Before moving to Green Valley, Mel was a golf pro at Michelbook Country Club in McMinnville, Oregon for 24 years. He was a lifetime member of the PGA.

Mel was often quoted as saying “Golf has given me so much and in my teaching I try to give it all back.”