Michigan Golf Journal November 2020

33 November 2020 www.michigangolfjournal.com courses) at one low price, likely lower than any other local course’s single course membership.” Benona is a par 60 executive course that was developed and owned by the Hukill family since its inception in 1974. It winds throughout a former fruit tree farm. Brian Hukill operated Benona Shores for 20 years, but he died in January, 2019 after fighting a two-year battle with cancer. Brian was just 47 years old and his wife Dawn knew maintaining the business without him was going to be a big challenge. “The stress is just overwhelming,” said Dawn. “I mean Brian did so much and nowadays golf courses aren’t making what they used to. It was just too much of everything.” Wenk, a highly successful pioneer in the wealth management and technology industry, paid 50 percent over the appraised value of the 137 acre site. It’s an all- inclusive cash deal, and while the exact terms of the sale was not disclosed, Wenk did confirm it was the highest price paid for a golf course in the area. “We feel very comfortable with the price,” Wenk said. “I knew Brian and we had some of the same friends. Dawn has been great to work with and I think it’s only right to honor the Hukill legacy. I want to make sure anybody that comes to Benona knows and understands the contributions of the Hukill family. “I wanted Dawn to feel that she’s comfortable enough to move on with her life and to heal.” Dawn Hukill said she had other buyers interested but want to take the time to find the right person. “Jason was a local who played here and knew the course and what it meant,” she said. “I saw what he did Continues on next page >>