Imagine a beloved community icon whose vision shaped parks and landmarks, only to see his memorial fall into neglect—does that tug at your heartstrings and make you wonder why? That's the story unfolding at Rose Creek Golf Course in south Fargo, where a special tribute is getting a much-needed facelift. But here's where it gets intriguing: this isn't just about sprucing up greens or tees; it's about rekindling the memory of a man who changed the face of local recreation. Stick around to discover the details—and ponder whether such renovations truly honor the past or risk altering it forever.
In the heart of Fargo, Rose Creek Golf Course is buzzing with activity, but not from golfers perfecting their swings. Instead, the focus is on a heartfelt overhaul of the memorial dedicated to Bob 'Goose' Johnson, the former superintendent of the Fargo Park District. For beginners wondering what a memorial garden entails, think of it as a serene outdoor space designed to celebrate someone's life and contributions—often featuring ponds, plants, and plaques that create a peaceful spot for reflection. Johnson's garden, established after his passing in 2002, has unfortunately seen better days, with the pond developing leaks and the surrounding greenery becoming overgrown and unkempt.
Johnson, affectionately nicknamed 'Goose,' played a pivotal role in the course's 1993 opening during his tenure as superintendent from 1970 to 1996. He retired in 1996, just three years after the golf course debuted, and his legacy endures through this garden in front of the clubhouse. But in recent years, neglect has taken its toll, prompting the Park District to step in decisively. They've filled in the leaky pond and pruned back the plants and shrubs to prepare for a fresh start. This approach not only addresses the immediate issues but also sets the stage for something more vibrant and enduring.
Rocky Papachek, the Fargo Park District's golf director, shared an optimistic view on the transformation. 'We're seizing this moment to rejuvenate and breathe new life into the area,' he explained, emphasizing how the project reflects a deeper commitment to Johnson's enduring influence. Over the winter, Park District staff will brainstorm and design a brand-new memorial space, with a grand re-dedication ceremony slated for late spring or early summer. And this is the part most people miss: the existing memorial rock honoring Johnson will stay put, serving as a steadfast anchor in the redesigned garden.
According to Papachek, the rock will remain a key element, symbolizing continuity. 'It'll stay as the centerpiece of the memorial garden,' he noted. 'Our team is crafting a fresh design that keeps honoring Goose's profound impact on our parks and the wider community.' Johnson wasn't just any superintendent; he was a visionary, often called a 'dreamer,' who championed major projects like the Fargodome, which opened in 1993 alongside Rose Creek Golf Course. These initiatives transformed Fargo's recreational landscape, turning ambitious ideas into reality and boosting community pride.
The golf course itself has a history of evolution, having undergone a significant levee renovation in 2016 to combat flooding from the nearby Rose Coulee. That project reshaped much of the back nine holes, even relocating two entire holes to ensure better drainage and playability. It's a reminder of how active maintenance keeps places like Rose Creek thriving for generations.
Now, here's where things might spark some debate: Is renovating a memorial garden an act of respectful preservation, or does it dilute the original tribute by modernizing it? Some might argue that untouched memorials hold more authenticity, retaining the raw essence of past tributes, while others see renewal as a way to keep legacies alive in a changing world. What do you think—should we embrace updates like this, or cling to the status quo? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have a personal story about honoring community heroes.
Jeff Kolpack, whose background includes being the son of a reporter and brother to another, along with his own career as an English teacher, has had an illustrious journalism journey. He worked at the Jamestown Sun and Bismarck Tribune before joining The Forum in 1990, where he's been covering North Dakota State athletics since 1995. With ten Division I FCS national football titles under his belt for NDSU, he's authored books like 'Horns Up,' 'North Dakota Tough,' 'Covid Kids,' and 'They Caught Them Sleeping: How Dot Reinvented the Pretzel.' He's also the host of 'The Golf Show with Jeff Kolpack' from April through August, blending his passions for sports and storytelling.
