Not Even State Lines Deter Golfing Legend Steve Melnyk (and Family) From Attending St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

Born in Brunswick, Georgia, longtime Ortega resident, Steve Melnyk, was a golf standout at the University of Florida before winning the 1969 U.S. Amateur. That same year, he also won the Western Amateur and served as a member of the victorious Walker Cup team.

Two years later, in 1971, Melnyk added the British Amateur title to his resume. With that overseas victory, he stands today as one of only 13 players to win – both – the U.S. Amateur and British Amateur. Among those with whom he shares that distinction are Jack Nicklaus, Byron Nelson and Bobby Jones.

Following that wildly successful amateur career, Steve did nab four runner-up finishes on the PGA TOUR. In addition to his impressive on-course prowess, Melnyk’s love and dedication to the game resulted in a long and successful run as an on-camera golf analyst for ABC Sports.

Golf, though, isn’t all that’s at the center of the Melnyk family’s heart. Nestled right in there with the professional sport is our very own St. Mark’s Episcopal Church.

“St. Mark’s has always been a very special place to our family,” said Steve Melnyk. “Both of our boys went to St. Mark’s for school early on. They were both acolytes. My wife, Debbie, was senior warden. That church and atmosphere is very much a part of our soul. Living in St. Simons now leaves us missing it.”

Melnyk and Debbie do, however, find themselves hopping into the car many Sunday mornings and heading south to St. Mark’s for services.

“When we lived in the area, we’d have date night Friday night at Timuquana and then every Sunday was church at St. Mark’s…followed by lunch again at Timuquana,” Melnyk said with a chuckle. “It was like clockwork. We loved every minute of it, because we loved everything about St. Mark’s. We still do….and that should be evident by the fact that we cross state lines to still come attend St. Mark’s services.”