W. Prescott Seckel ’63

Pres — family man, investment professional, and champion golfer — passed away June 8, 2021, at home in Palm Harbor, Fla. Charismatic, caring, and quick-witted, he had an easygoing and relaxed demeanor that belied his competitiveness as an athlete. 

Golf in particular was a lifetime passion. He played until just weeks before his death, amiably coached family members, sat on the board of the Copperheads for the PGA tournament at Innisbrook, and was on the selection committee for Golf Digest’s 100 Greatest. 

After Peoria (Ill.) Central High School, Pres spent a year at Lawrenceville before Princeton, where he majored in politics, was golf captain, and joined Cottage Club. He was runner-up in the Eastern Intercollegiate Championship and twice an NCAA player. After graduation he became an officer in the Illinois Air National Guard, rising to captain. 

Pres worked in financial services for several firms in Peoria, then moved to Palm Harbor in 1987 to open a new office for Kemper Securities in Clearwater and later did the same for Robert W. Baird in Palm Harbor. He retired in 2009. 

The class shares its sadness with Sandy, his wife of 57 years; son Sean; daughter Sheryl Hunter; four grandchildren; and sister Sherry.