The family of the late Cody “Beef” Franke urged golfers participating in the Internet Invitational to pay close attention to overlooked course workers, such as greenskeepers, maintenance staff, and attendants. During the opening episode of the tournament released on October 26, 2026, which featured a tribute to the late PGA Professional and Fore Play personality who passed away last October at age 31, his family encouraged players to learn the stories of these staff members and help grant them recognition.
Remembering Cody Franke
Franke’s mother shared during the gathering—where the tournament trophy now carries his name and where Beef won the inaugural event alongside Brad Dalke and Francis Ellis—that her son always made people feel like they belonged. Before building a recognizable media presence, Franke studied golf management at Ferris State University, worked at Desert Willow Golf Resort in California, and served as the head golf professional at Thornberry Creek at Oneida in Wisconsin, as noted by Athlon Sports Senior Golf Writer Brendon Elliott.
Ryan Szydlowski, a PGA Professional at Desert Willow, recalled that Franke was the driving force behind their “Tip Tuesday” instructional videos, which followed two strict rules: keep them under a minute and shoot only one take. Meanwhile, Brett Shoopman remembered playing a 100-hole fundraiser for Folds of Honor with Franke, where Franke famously wore a Santa suit for the fourth round and shot a 74.
Honoring Course Workers and Supporting Students
Established in November 2025, the Cody “BEEF” Franke Foundation for Golf focuses on education, equipment, instruction, and supporting golf course workers and causes Franke cared about. During the tournament tribute, the family introduced the Heart of the Course Award, inviting nominations for golf course employees and regular volunteers based on service, character, and impact rather than job titles or playing ability.
Additionally, the Cody “Beef” Franke Endowed Scholarship at Ferris State University was created to support students enrolled in its PGA Golf Management program who reflect his values as a professional and mentor. Athlon Sports reported that the family also asked players to continue Franke’s celebration tradition of two claps and a woo whenever someone hits a good shot or deserves encouragement.
