In Loving Memory | Professional Disc Golf Association
Date Published
**TITLE:** "Disc Golf Legend Rebecca Sue Zallek Passes Away After Brave Battle with Brain Cancer"
**META_TITLE:** "Rebecca Sue Zallek Disc Golf Tribute"
**META_DESCRIPTION:** "Renowned disc golf advocate and community leader Becky Zallek passes away at 48 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Read about her remarkable legacy and contributions to the sport."
**ARTICLE:**
Rebecca Sue Zallek, affectionately known as Becky to those who knew her, left an indelible mark on the disc golf world in Des Moines, Iowa, where she passed away on November 27th at the age of 48. The dedicated community leader had been fighting a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Becky's passing leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to her family and friends. She is survived by her loving husband, Michael Susanin; mother, Sandra Zallek; brother Chris Zallek (Sarah) and sister JoAnne Zallek (Dave Champion); as well as six nieces and four nephews. Her father, Carl Zallek, who preceded her in death, will be deeply missed.
Becky's professional career spanned various roles in the financial and insurance industries, including agent, customer representative, claims analyst, technical writer, project and business analyst, and systems training developer. However, it was her tireless efforts in promoting disc golf that earned her a special place in the hearts of many. Her infectious personality, "can-do" attitude, and unwavering enthusiasm made her an ambassador for the sport.
Becky played a pivotal role in introducing countless people to disc golf, including several children who are now carrying on their parents' passion for the game. She was instrumental in the installation of multiple disc golf courses in central Iowa and successfully led the bid for Des Moines to host the 2004 Pro/Am PDGA World Championships, where she served as Co-Tournament Director.
The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) has recognized Becky's outstanding contributions with numerous awards, including Services to the PDGA and the Sport, Volunteer of the Year, Tournament Director of the Year, and a shared Honored Sportswoman award. In 2013, she was inducted into the Disc Golf Hall of Fame at the Professional World Championships in Crown Point, Indiana.
PDGA Executive Director Brian Graham shared heartfelt memories of Becky: "Becky and I were both finalists for the Executive Director job with the PDGA in 2007. I expressed my confidence that Becky would excel in the role if she didn't get the position. Her exceptional organizational and fundraising skills have inspired countless individuals to give back to the disc golf community."
In celebration of Becky's life, memorial contributions can be made to the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines in support of the Becky Zallek Juniors Disc Golf Tournament. Online condolences are available at IlesCares.com. A Celebration of Life will be held as envisioned by Becky.
Her passing has left a profound void in the disc golf community, but her legacy will continue to inspire and motivate generations to come.
This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/loving-memory