Korby's Connections: A happy event in memory of a friend

Nearly every person in Minnesota, and, for that matter, everywhere, has known a close friend or relative who has had some form of cancer. My good friend, Gary "Moose" Pastika, a few years back, tested positive for colon cancer. His best chance for recovery was to have his colon totally removed. He recovered, went back to work, played golf well, and after several years was deemed cancer-free. But, as it often does, the cancer returned, he got sick, and the disease won, ending his life. He died at age 64.

He was an excellent golfer and a 50-year member of the Cloquet Country Club. We miss him and still talk about him.

The next year, Moose's brother, sister, and my wife and I, in partnership with the Cloquet Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Cloquet Country Club, decided to conduct a golf tournament fundraiser in Gary's name and memory. Funds generated would go to the Cloquet Hospital Foundation and then be directed to their Cancer Infusion Center. A smaller gift would also be given annually to the Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank. Monday marked the fifth annual "Moose" Cancer Golf Fundraiser.

Sixty-three people played in the July 22 tourney. Many more of Gary's friends, teammates and acquaintances attended the dinner and door-prize drawing after the golf. There were plenty of laughs, handshakes and hugs. The out-of-town and out-of-state guests look forward to their annual pilgrimage to Cloquet to play in the event at the Cloquet golf club, have a burger and fries from Gordy's, and stop in afterward at the Lost Tavern for a cold beverage. Returning visitors came from Iowa, the Twin Cities area, the Twin Ports, and the Iron Range. Most are Carlton County high school graduates.

In stunning fashion this year, the three-year reigning Moose Cancer Fundraiser champs were upended. Those members included Andrew Salo Korby, Matt Carlson, Jake Comnick and lefty Adam Stowell. The 2024 champs were captained by Rick Stowell and also included Steve Mokros, Steve Freeman and Kurt Wuollet. Their winning score was 59, 12 under par. Second place went, at 10 under 61, to the team of Ryan Salo Korby, Jack McFarlane, former Scanlon star athlete Steve Johnson, and yours truly.

Even though there were several rain delays and nearby thunderstorms, all players came into the clubhouse unscathed, hungry, and thirsty, and were provided a great meal. The prizes contributed by generous hole sponsors and donors were distributed to the thankful players.

Cloquet Community Memorial Hospital Foundation Director Bekki Babineau thanked all players, sponsors, and donors. The funds generated will be put to good use in support of the Cancer Infusion Center.