KERROBERT — Dec. 17 was a big day at the Kerrobert Memorial Arena as an all-day event took place to celebrate the recreation venue’s diamond anniversary, held in conjunction with Minor Hockey Day.
Kerrobert arena marks 75 years serving as the community hub. - Â鶹ÊÓƵ.ca
Mother Nature and Old Man Winter were at odds and delivered some unfavourable weather, but that did not deter small town folks from working together to make things happen.
Prior to the U18 Tigers game, MC and town councillor, Brad Murphy, spoke to those in attendance. He welcomed Kerrobert Legion members as well as special guests Lyndsay Neumeier, Shirleen and Casey Fruhstuk and family to mark the special occasion.
Murphy said, “We are here tonight to celebrate 75 years of this incredible facility, but, more importantly, we celebrate the people. Those who built it, those who cared for it, those who played in it and those after which it was named.”
Murphy shared these words from former and late resident, W. B. Sample, given over 60 years ago that still ring true today, “Yes, the scoffers said, ‘it couldn't be done, it would never be finished,’ ‘Kerrobert has bitten off more than it can chew this time.’ They had forgotten the triumphs of past years by the people of this same district; how they had fought for and secured our magnificent court house, a fine modern hospital, the local creamery, a fine library, our fine churches and one of the finest theaters in the province.”
Murphy offered thanks to those who had a hand in building the Memorial Arena. The name was chosen to pay tribute to those Kerrobert and district servicemen who fell in both world wars. The Kerrobert Legion members were on hand to help celebrate as was Glen Tomacek who represented his dad, Second World War veteran, John Tomacek, now 103.
Murphy adds, “We bring on very special guests to help us honour those who had a hand in ensuring that this building stood the test of time for the past 75 years. Shirleen and Casey Fruhstuk and family are joining us in memory of their late husband, father and brother Darryl Frustuk. Darryl passed away nine years ago. He and many others, as caretakers of this ice and of the facility, played an important part in caring for not only the facility but in many ways for the people who entered its doors. Many communities have a beautiful arena but not every community has an Adgey, a Rob, a Darryl or a Kyle; these and so many more we thank tonight for going above and beyond in their duties.”
This family was tasked with the ceremonial puck drop.
“This building has been incredible successes and tragedies, it has seen many exciting wins and heartbreaking losses, through laughter and tears it has played a vital role in this community and the best of people have walked through its doors. We look forward to many more years of making memories in this arena,” says Murphy.
Kerrobert Recreation Director Bobbi Hebron says, “It has been an emotional week connecting with so many people who have played such a vital role in this building and our people.
“You get a real sense of community when you take note of all the volunteers and staff, players and fans, who go above and beyond to make things happen at any recreational facility, always offering the words, ‘what can I do to help.’ ‘sure no problem, I can do it.’”
Hebron says this attitude is what builds facilities, new programs, events and ultimately a better place to live and raise families.
See Town of Kerrobert Culture and Recreation Facebook page for more photos from the event.
