In the Black Creek neighbourhood of Toronto, Rudy Riske, a long-time gardener and volunteer, has gained a dedicated following as he works tirelessly to transform a previously hidden piece of public land. His efforts culminated in a community celebration on Thursday to mark his 100th birthday, honoring the decades of hard work he has dedicated to this project.
Event organizer Peter Wolfl described Riske as "everybody's hero," highlighting his passion and the positive impact he has made within the community. Rudy, who immigrated to Canada more than six decades ago and is a retired construction worker, has become somewhat of a local icon over the years.
Riske shared a light-hearted moment, mentioning how people often stop by to take his picture while he’s working near York University, noting that his image has spread across the globe. The garden he nurtured is located just off the Huron-Wendat Trail, in the hydro corridor east of Tobermory Drive and north of Finch Avenue West. What was once an overgrown swamp area has now flourished with bluebell flowers, thanks to Riske’s devoted care. Over the last three decades, the size of his gardening area has tripled.
“Once I started, I got bitten by the bug,” Riske reflected on his journey. He shared that he committed to visiting the site every day for 30 years, often going twice a day during the summer months. His commitment has involved extensive labor, including clearing weeds, hauling soil from his home in a wheelbarrow, planting diverse flowers, and constructing multiple levels for plants—all accomplished primarily with his bare hands.
CityNews captured Riske’s passion in a segment prior to his 94th birthday in August 2020, showcasing his routine of cycling to maintain the garden and fetching water from the creek using a bucket. Riske expressed his fulfillment with the project, viewing it as a full-time endeavor that has given him purpose and satisfaction.
Margaret Riske, Rudy's wife of 78 years, expressed her awe at his unwavering dedication, frequently marveling at what he has achieved. “I can’t believe what you did,” she said, illustrating not just her admiration, but the support that has sustained their relationship through years of shared experiences.
In addition to his family, a network of supporters underscores Rudy's legacy and the importance of preserving his garden for future generations. They are actively seeking volunteers to help with the maintenance of the vibrant space, as well as sponsorships to facilitate physical improvements to the area. Community members are encouraged to contribute to this continuing effort, as indicated in a linked document offering details on how to get involved.
Looking ahead, Rudy remains enthusiastic about his gardening work. “I don’t feel like winding down at all. If I keep living, I’ll go on as much as I can,” he expressed, highlighting his desire for neighbors to value and care for their natural environment. He hopes the community continues to ensure that the space does not fall into disrepair.
