Alfred Bertucci, 84, a second-generation golf course superintendent who spent 50 years caring for the links at Highland Park’s Old Elm Club, died Saturday, Aug. 26, of cancer at his home in Alpharetta, Ga. Mr. Bertucci oversaw the Old Elm course, from its flowers and trees to flagpoles and cups. He often worked seven days a week, rising before sunrise and working until the last golfer entered the clubhouse at sunset. “He had a love for maintaining the course and the challenge that went with it,” said his brother, Bruno. “He loved to keep the course in excellent condition.” Mr. Bertucci’s father, Elmer, became the golf course’s first superintendent in 1913, and the father-son team worked together for many years. Born and raised in Highwood, Mr. Bertucci graduated in 1934 from Deerfield Shields High School, now known as Highland Park High School. An outstanding athlete, he spent several years playing semi-professional baseball and football and tried out for the New York Giants baseball team in 1938, relatives said. He and his wife, Anne, had been married for 61 years. Mr. Bertucci served in the 6th Armored Division during World War II. The couple retired to Alpharetta in 1996. In addition to his wife and brother, survivors include two sons, Jerry, and Ronald; another brother, Elmer Jr., a sister, Rena Zanarini; and six grandchildren. A mass will be said at 10 a.m. Wednesday in St. James Church, 134 North Ave., Highwood.
