John Michael Spiroplaus

John Michael Spiroplaus passed away peacefully at the age of 91, surrounded by his family on May 10, 2026.

John is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Helen Spiroplaus, his children Kathleen (Randy) Stella, Lauren Spiroplaus-Michelon, Jennifer Spiroplaus (Jeff Smith) and Penelope (Pete) Weber, his grandchildren Nicholas, Randi, Christina, Danielle and Mackenzie, and his great-grandchildren Amy, Burke, and Lilly. John was preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Stella Spiroplaus, brother Chris and daughter Jacqueline.

A PGA of America Master Professional, John spent nearly three decades at Olympia Fields Country Club and was part of the professional staff during the club’s hosting of the 1997 U.S. Senior Open. He also served on the Illinois PGA Board of Directors during the 1980s and 1990s and chaired the Illinois PGA Rules Committee, where he was respected for his knowledge of the game and the Rules of Golf.

In 1983, he received the Illinois PGA Golf Professional of the Year Award, the Section’s highest honor recognizing leadership, service, and contributions to the profession. In 1977 and 1986, he was honored with the Illinois PGA Horton Smith Award for his commitment to education and professional development within the Illinois Section PGA.

For over 10 years, John proudly served as an official on the National PGA Rules Committee. Through his service, he formed lifelong friendships with fellow officials from across the country and created countless priceless memories that he treasured deeply.

While serving as Director of Golf at La Costa Resort and Spa, John greatly enjoyed being involved in the daily operations of the club and took special pride in hosting the annual Tournament of Champions, creating memorable experiences for players, guests, and colleagues alike.

John continued his passion for mentoring and guiding assistant professionals in their own “labor of love” journeys when he joined Marietta Country Club in Georgia, where he generously shared his knowledge, encouragement, and enduring love for the game.

During his affiliation with the Atlanta Junior Golf Association, John found great joy in mentoring young players and instilling in future generations a deep love and respect for the game of golf. His dedication to education, leadership, and service earned him the Section’s PGA Professional Development Award in 2007 in recognition of his outstanding contributions to improving educational opportunities.

John impacted many throughout the golf community through his leadership, personality, and love of the game, which he shared with generations of PGA Professionals, members, and players. He carried these same qualities into his personal life, where he was a constant encourager and steadfast supporter of those around him. He lovingly referred to his wife as his “beautiful bride,” also known as “Bohunk,” and his deep devotion and affection for her were evident in the way he spoke of her and the life they shared. He always looked for the positive in any situation and met each day with his signature outlook of being “outstanding but improving,” a phrase that reflected his humility, humor, and unwavering optimism, and one that will continue to live on in his family for generations to come.

A celebration of life will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at West Cobb Funeral Home and Crematory in Marietta, Georgia.