The fourth annual Dennis Wallace Memorial Golf Tournament took place recently at Oakdale Golf and Country Club. The tournament is hosted to honor the memory of fallen Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Deputy Dennis Wallace, who died in the line of duty on Nov. 16, 2016. Over 400 golfers showed up for the tournament and to show support for the Wallace family.

“I think everyone had a great time,” said board member Sarah Adams.

Funds from the tournament will benefit the DW61 Foundation, Inc. The foundation supports local children in Stanislaus County and surrounding counties, including San Joaquin.

“Dennis loved kids and helping them out,” said Adams. “He always made it his mission to help underprivileged youth with cleats, uniforms or even helping them have a place to go after school to do their homework.”

Prior to the tournament, golfers participated in a Happy Gilmore-themed putting contest where they used a custom-made hockey stick putter. Jordan Gall won the contest.

Shortly after the putting event, an emotional opening ceremony took place. Dennis’s brother Dave Wallace made a heartfelt speech and sent out a ‘thank you’ to all the participants and guests. As the flag at the golf course stood at half-staff, bagpipes were played in honor of the fallen hero. When the tears and cheers were done, the teams went on to play their 18-hole tournament to honor their friend, relative and mentor.

“It truly was special to see how many people showed up; we had more players than we usually do. Mercedes, Dennis’s widow and his family really enjoyed seeing everyone and knowing how much fun they had,” Adams noted. “We want to thank our generous sponsors as well who helped make this event run. They were more than generous and we cannot thank them enough.”

If you would like to sign-up for next year’s event, or want information on how to be a sponsor, feel free to visit the Facebook page under Dennis Wallace Memorial Golf Tournament.