Elmer Voight, born Elmer Samuel Voytka on October 29, 1909, influenced golf. Despite being less famous than his son Jon Voight, the famous actor, Elmer Voight became a professional golfer and golf club pro. His life exemplifies devotion, hard effort, and sporting prowess. This page covers his life, career, and legacy.
Early Life of Elmer Voight
Elmer Voight was born in Yonkers, New York, to George Voytka and Helen ‘Nellie’. Growing up in a modest family, he faced the challenges of poverty but displayed an early interest in sports. His father, a hardworking man, supported him in his pursuit of a career in golf, which led Elmer to develop his skills and eventually pursue professional golfing.
Rise to Prominence in Golf
Early golfing years were difficult, but Elmer persevered. He worked hard in local courses to improve his abilities and reputation. Elmer was well-known in golf by maturity for his skill and devotion. His career took off in the 1930s and 1940s, when golf was gaining popularity.
The Professional Golfer
As a professional golfer, Elmer Voight made a significant impact on the golfing scene. His consistent performances and impressive skills saw him become a sought-after player at various clubs. Elmer’s talent and passion for the game helped him rise through the ranks to become the golf pro at Sunningdale Golf Club in Scarsdale, New York, one of the most prestigious clubs in the area.
Career at Sunningdale Golf Club
At Sunningdale, Elmer Voight became a respected figure in the golfing community. His role as the golf pro allowed him to teach and mentor aspiring golfers, sharing his knowledge of the game with a new generation of players. The Sunningdale Golf Club was known for its exclusive atmosphere, and Elmer’s presence there elevated its prestige.
The Influence of Elmer Voight
Elmer Voight’s influence extended beyond just his role as a professional golfer. He was instrumental in shaping the future of the game, especially in terms of golf instruction. He worked tirelessly to teach the techniques and nuances of golf to his students, some of whom went on to have successful careers in the sport. Elmer’s contributions were not only to the game itself but to the community of golf lovers he helped cultivate.
Family Legacy: A Connection to Hollywood
While Elmer Voight’s life and career as a golfer were impressive in their own right, his legacy grew even more notable due to his son, Jon Voight. Jon Voight, the celebrated actor, would go on to become a household name in Hollywood. Elmer’s influence can be seen in Jon’s pursuit of excellence, albeit in the world of acting rather than sports. Jon’s fame further cemented the Voight name in popular culture, but Elmer’s own achievements were pivotal in their own right.
Net Worth and Financial Impact
Elmer Voight’s legacy is valuable even if his golfing career was not as successful as current superstars. Elmer’s net worth reflected his excellent career and sports accomplishments when he died in 1973. While his money was small compared to today’s best golfers, he left a legacy of hard work and commitment. Jon Voight, who is now worth $55 million, and his family became wealthy.
The Influence of Golf on Jon Voight
Though Jon Voight’s fame primarily comes from his acting career, golf played an important role in his upbringing. Growing up, Jon was heavily influenced by his father’s love for the game. Elmer’s dedication to golf undoubtedly had an impact on Jon, shaping his character and work ethic. Even though Jon pursued a different career, the discipline and commitment instilled in him by his father are qualities that are evident in his acting career.
Elmer Voight’s Family
Elmer Voight’s family was close-knit and supportive throughout his career. He married Barbara Voight, and together they had three children: Jon Voight, Barry Voight, and Chip Taylor. While Jon became a famous actor, his siblings led less public lives but remained important parts of the Voight family. Elmer’s family ties continued to influence his legacy, as his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren carried on the Voight name and values.
Elmer Voight’s Passing and Legacy
Elmer Voight, 63, died in June 1973. His death ended an era for golfers. Through his contributions to the sport and the Voight family’s fame, his legacy lives on. His son Jon Voight’s career has kept the Voight name famous, but Elmer’s golfing achievements are still important.
Remembering Elmer Voight Today
Elmer Voight’s legacy is often overshadowed by his son’s Hollywood fame, but his impact on the world of golf cannot be overlooked. As a professional golfer and golf pro, Elmer helped shape the early years of the sport in New York and beyond. He was a man who worked tirelessly to build a career and share his love for the game with others. Today, Elmer Voight’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, dedication, and family in achieving success.
FAQ
Who was Elmer Voight?
Elmer Voight, born Elmer Samuel Voytka in 1909, was a professional golfer known for his role as the golf pro at Sunningdale Golf Club in Scarsdale, New York. He was the father of actor Jon Voight.
What was Elmer Voight’s net worth?
While the exact net worth of Elmer Voight at the time of his death in 1973 is not publicly available, it was likely modest compared to today’s top golfers. However, his legacy has lived on through his family.
How did Elmer Voight influence Jon Voight?
Elmer’s dedication to golf and work ethic greatly influenced Jon, even though Jon pursued acting instead of golf. The values of hard work and discipline instilled by Elmer played a role in Jon’s successful career.
Did Elmer Voight’s family continue his legacy?
Yes, Elmer’s legacy is carried on by his children, including Jon Voight, who became a famous actor. His family’s prominence in both the entertainment and sports worlds has kept his memory alive.