Paul Rundstrom Golf Scholarship

History

In Hillsboro, Paul Rundstrom was recognized not only for his work in insurance and real estate but also as a valued neighbor and integral community member. He played a key role in establishing the Hillsboro Industrial Park. Furthermore, Paul was a major proponent of transitioning the Hillsboro Municipal Golf Course from sand greens to grass greens – a significant renovation whose impact endures today. He was known for connecting with people, building relationships, and contributing meaningfully to the town he called home.

The warmth of his presence made his sudden and tragic loss in a plane crash on June 21, 1978, profoundly felt.

In a truly heartfelt gesture, the Hillsboro Golf Association refused to let his memory fade. They sought a way to honor the man they knew and respected, establishing not only an annual tournament but, significantly, a scholarship in his name.

This scholarship wasn’t just a memorial; it was envisioned as a living legacy. Dedicated to supporting a promising senior golfer from Hillsboro High School each year, it reflects the kind of community support Paul himself likely embodied. The annual tournament became a way to gather, remember Paul, and actively fund this commitment to the next generation.

Even as time passed and the Hillsboro Golf Association prepared to disband, the commitment to Paul’s memory remained paramount. With remarkable foresight and care, they ensured his legacy would continue to nurture young talent by transferring the scholarship fund to the Hillsboro Community Foundation.

Today, Paul Rundstrom’s spirit endures in Hillsboro. It lives on not just in the memories of those who knew him, but in the annual support given to young student-athletes, ensuring that his name remains synonymous with generosity and community connection for years to come. He is remembered as a cherished member of the Hillsboro family, whose legacy continues to make a positive difference.

Paul Rundstrom Golf Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded annually to a deserving senior on the Hillsboro High School golf team. The recipient is selected by a committee comprising the high school golf coach and USD 410 administration. The Hillsboro Community Foundation manages the scholarship’s investments to ensure it can be awarded indefinitely and accepts tax-exempt donations to the fund.

Past Recipients

2000 – Grant Wiens 2001 – Phil Thiessen2003 – Billy Winegarner 
2004 – Randy Klassen 2005 – Lance Bartel 2006 – Andrew Bina
2007 – Darren Enns2008 – Justin Kent2009 – Jake Kenney
2010 – Daniel Kunantaev2011 – Daniel Kennney2012 – Devin Dick
2013 – Andrew Meier2014 – Evan Ollenburger2015 – Philip Ediger
2017 – Carson Herbel2018 – Elliot Ollenburger2019 – Avery Unruh
2021 – Paul Glanzer2022 – Rylie Daniels2023 – Bryant Dalke
2024 – Annaliese Jorgenson2025 – Lincoln Wichert 

*Note: No eligible senior golfers in 2002, 2016, or 2020.

Rundstrom 2-Person Best Ball Tournament

  • Timing: Traditionally held in April
  • Hosts: City of Hillsboro & Hillsboro Golf Course
  • Format: 2-Person Best Ball; Each member plays their own ball throughout every hole. Only the best individual score on each hole counts as the team’s score.
  • Registration: Fees paid to Hillsboro Golf Course
  • Fees Include: Team registration and side games. Cart rental not included.