Ward 5 Councilmember Jim Perry (from left), Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson, Fire Chief Steve McKinster, Wendy Strack, and City Manager Mike Futrell participate in the ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony for the Tim Strack Park building on Nov. 12, 2024.
Riverside is honoring fallen Fire Captain Tim Strack with a park in Ward 5 named after him, set to open next summer. The city broke ground on Tim Strack Park on what would have been the firefighter's 55th birthday.
The park, previously called El Dorado Park, will feature a fire department-themed playground and serve as a community gathering spot.
At the ceremony, Riverside Mayor Patricia Locke Dawson highlighted Strack's character. "He grasped the bigger picture of relationships, politics, community, and the importance of commitment," she said.
Strack joined the Riverside Fire Department in 1995 and became a fire captain in 2003. He also served as president of the Riverside City Firefighters Association for 21 years.
New Fire Chief Steve McKinster shared, "This park represents new beginnings, remembrance, and joy. It's a place for children to play and families to gather. It captures Tim's spirit and dedication to service."
Ward 5 Councilmember Jim Perry mc'd the ceremony and described Strack as "larger than life, deeply caring about his fire department, community, and firefighters nationwide. He was committed to making this city the best it could be."
Tim's widow, Wendy Strack, said, "It means so much to our family that his legacy will continue. Future generations will be inspired by his dedication to public service and love for the fire service."
