Ball fans raising funds for ‘Bob’s Bench’

GRAVENHURST — Ball players and fans here can’t forget their No. 1 fan and supporter.

Bob Turney, an integral part of coaching, managing and supporting little league and adult league baseball, softball and fastball may have stuck out, but his legion of supporters want to make sure his memory and presence remain felt.

For “Bob” was truly a diamond in the rough.

And in later years when he wasn’t active on the field or in the dugout or behind the scenes, he was in his favourite perch behind homeplate keeping an ever keen and cheery eye on all the hot corners.

Often his eyes were sharper than the umpire in front of him.

Now comes the pitch.

Players are raising $1,100 to dedicate a park bench at the Muskoka Wharf Diamond (on James Street) ball field to honour him.

“We are hoping the bench will be installed by June 1,” says fundraiser Mandy Dart.

They expect to dedicate “Bob’s Bench” it on a game night, so as many ball players as possible can attend.

They’re calling it

As part of the town’s park bench progrom, it will cost $1,100.00 to have it installed and maintained for 15 years.

So far, Dart says they’ve raise $700 in donations.

She adds: “If you knew and loved Bob Turney, like so many of us did, please contact me to support the cost of the bench in any small, medium or large way that you can.”

Dart’s email is [email protected]