Ennismore Robert E. Young
Recreation Complex
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From the Ground Up
Early in 2007, the Township Parks and Recreation Committee felt it was important to officially recognize Robert E. Young for his contributions in creating the Recreation Complex. It is widely know that the Complex as we know it today would not be here had Robert Young not been a strong voice and advocate for its need.
Robert Young was the Reeve at the time the lands were purchased from the Moloney family. The lands were purchased in two phases, approximately 10 acres in 1970 and another 32 acres or so in 1975 for a total investment of a little over $43,000. Approximately 8 acres were later sold to the two School Boards.
Led by Robert Young’s vision, the Council of the day recognized the opportunity to purchase a sizeable piece of property in a central location that could serve the recreation needs of the community. Robert recognized that more than just an arena was needed. There was a need for year round facilities and the property’s size could accommodate a number of activities.
In 1972 the Arena was built. This was truly a community project. Funds were secured from the Wintario program, that built many Arena’s in the 1970’s, and the rest of the money was raised by the community. Raising community support doesn’t just happen. It takes someone to lead, someone to take the heat and someone to fight to keep a project moving along. Robert Young was this leader. The Arena was just the start. The Curling Club followed in 1977 then came ball diamonds, soccer pitches, tennis courts and a basket ball park. The site is a hive of activity in Ennismore and it’s not just sports. Events such as the Shamrock Festival, teen dances and wedding receptions take place here every week!
Robert’s commitment didn’t just stop at the Council level … through his company he donated materials and labour to develop the facilities. He also supports several teams, in particular youth teams, and could often be found watching several baseball games every week.
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Tribute to Robert E. Young
Robert Emmett Young entered the world as a third generation Ennismore resident on December 29, 1930 to proud parents John F. Young and Zita O’Donoghue.
As a student he first attended SS#2 - a one room Elementary School, after which he went on to High School at the Ennismore Continuation School , found in the basement of the Optimist Hall.
Eleanor Crough joined Robert in marriage in September of 1955 at St. Martins Church in Ennismore. Children soon followed and they have been blessed with three sons, three daughters and twenty-three grandchildren!
Robert’s trucking career began in the 1940’s when he was hired to help in the construction of the Causeway. He then went on to buy his first dump truck in 1962 and in 1972 he expanded his trucking operation to include custom crushing. Throughout all of this he still managed to maintain a cow calf farming operation.
Robert assumed the role of Reeve of Ennismore in 1962 and continued in this position until 1978. He has also served as a Warden of Peterborough County.
During this time he was instrumental in providing the township with the many services and the quality of life that residents still enjoy today. Robert was instrumental in the acquisition of the lands and in the construction of the community facilities that many municipal residents use and enjoy.
Robert was not only involved in the construction of the facilities, but has also been an active participant and sponsor for many years.
It is for these many reasons that we thank and honour this man for all he has done to make our community a better place to live and to grow.
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