Remembering our roots ~ Rockyford Friendship Centre

By John Godsman Times Contributor

In February 1972, a group of women got together to discuss the organization of a club for senior citizens in Rockyford. This group eventually became the backbone of the club, which was founded by volunteers and funded by donations.

Initially, meetings were held in member’s homes, and they would meet every month to organize the different activities.

Soon there were sufficient members for the club to organize outings to places like Heritage Park and the Calgary Zoo, bus trips to Banff, etc. 

In October 1973, the old Babe Fuller restaurant, barber shop and pool hall was purchased by the club for $1. Simon Roppel loaned a considerable amount of money to permit renovations to get under way.

The official opening date of the Rockyford Friendship Centre took place on Oct. 2, 1974 at-tended by Gordon Taylor, MLA and Stan Schumacher, MP and many other dignitaries. As time went by and membership increased, visits were exchanged with seniors clubs from Strathmore, Trochu, Three Hills and Calgary.

Entertainment in the form of card parties, bingo, shuffleboard and pool is enjoyed by the members. On Tuesday afternoons, ladies meet at the club for crafts and quilting, and once a month they serve soup to members. Physical fitness programs are available during the winter months.