Friday September 11, on a sunny afternoon, Rudy Riske enjoyed his 95th birthday party, held along the Huron Wendat trail in Black Creek. As the crowd listened to Peter the MC tell stories of Rudy’s life while hosting the dignitaries and guests in attendance (some of which included local City Councillor Anthony Perruzza and MPP Tom Rakocevic), glances up towards the decorated peaks of the affectionately dubbed “Rudy’s Garden” were frequent.

10 years ago, at the age of 85,, Rudolf Riske began a community garden to bring life and beauty to one of the city’s beloved trail systems. Born in Poland, Rudy worked on his family’s farm from the tender age of 8 years old. Since then, he has always enjoyed working with his hands.

After bravely fighting in World War II, he and his wife emigrated to Canada. They settled into the Jane Finch neighbourhood where Rudy earned his way by working in construction. Together, they watched the community grow and blossom into a destination for newcomers.

During the summer Rudy works tirelessly, fetching water up from the nearby Black Creek to nurture the tender blossoms along the ridges.

“I’m just an ordinary guy doing what I like to do, working with nature and gardening,” Rudy described. “When I started this project, I didn’t expect all this attention. I want to thank all the people who have helped with weeding and watering from the bottom of my heart.”

Rudy may be experiencing his golden years, but doesn’t have plans to slow the garden’s growth any time soon.

“I’m putting in more flowers and we are going to start growing seeds for the animals.” Rudy told the crowd. “Next year is going to be the best.”

If you’d like to help Rudy make improvements to and maintain the garden next year, please send an email to rudygarden911@gmail.com